Decompose Numbers Presented in a Word Problem – Free Math Worksheet

Students may have mastered decomposing numbers and rearranging the parts using physical materials and numerals, but can they interpret a word problem?

Use this worksheet with your students who need an extra challenge. They will demonstrate their ability to interpret a word problem and show two arrangements of items that reach a specified total as outlined in the questions.

An answer key with example answers is included with your download, which can be used to provide examples to students.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding  

In addition to individual student work time, use this worksheet as a:

• Guided math groups
• Lesson warm-up
• Lesson wrap-up
• Fast finishers 
• Homework assignment
• Whole-class review (via smartboard)

Challenge students to write additional word problems in similar styles to those in the worksheet.

Students who need extra support can use concrete materials to help interpret the word problem. They may also benefit from completing this more visual Rearranging Parts Worksheet.

Easily Download & Print

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource. 

To save paper, we suggest printing this 2-page worksheet double-sided.

Turn this teaching resource into a sustainable activity by printing on cardstock and slipping it into a write-and-wipe sleeve. Students can record their answers with a whiteboard marker, then erase and reuse.

Additionally, project the worksheet onto a screen and work through it as a class by having students record their answers in their notebooks.

Get more handy worksheets here!

This resource was created by Kendall Britnell, a Teach Starter Collaborator.