Practice Addition and Subtraction Word Problems within 50

Use these addition and subtraction task cards with mini whiteboards, maths notebooks, and smart boards for a quick operations lesson warm-up.

Through this activity, students will show they can add to, take from, put together, take apart, and compare numbers less than 50. 

For example, one card includes the following word problem: 

Naomi has joined a hockey team. The coach has 19 extra jerseys. Seven new players join the team and need jerseys. How many extras are left?

An answer sheet is included with your download for students to self-check their answers. 

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

Support struggling by providing manipulatives to assist them with solving the problems. Alternatively, provide students with our Problem Solving Mat to help them organize their ideas. 

Challenge fast finishers who already understand the concept to write five different problems for a partner to solve.

Are you looking for more or less challenging versions of this resource? Scroll down to the bottom of this page for more options. 

How to Use Our Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to reinforce your math lessons in the following ways: 

🏫 Whole Class Instruction

Project the task cards on a whiteboard and work through each together, discussing different ways of approaching and completing the problems.

🧮 Small Group 

Teach concepts in a small group setting in your math rotations. Students can use mini whiteboards to “show and share” their work for each problem.

✏️ Individual Practice

For an independent task, students can use a sheet of paper numbered 1–20 (or a mini whiteboard) and the task cards. Students will solve for the sum or difference and check their work.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between a PDF or editable Google Slides versions of this resource. An answer key is included with your download. 

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

To keep the task cards out of pockets or under desks, punch a hole in each corner and place them on a binder ring. 

Follow up: The Bar Model Method | Teaching Mathematical Problem Solving

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Check out an alternate version of this resource:

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