L7 Solve Two-Step and Mixed Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

Description

This Year 3 maths lesson on two-step word problems helps pupils develop their problem-solving and reasoning skills with addition and subtraction. By combining base 10 equipment, collaborative activities, and practical reasoning, children learn how to identify multiple steps in a problem, choose the correct calculations, and use the answer from the first step to solve the second accurately.

The lesson begins with a starter activity revisiting previous Year 3 learning on one-step addition and subtraction problems, as well as multiplication and division. Pupils recap how to identify the key information and the correct operation, using base 10 resources to visualise exchanges, such as converting 10 tens into 1 hundred. This helps children understand the structure of a one-step problem before moving on to more complex tasks.

During the main teaching input, pupils are introduced to two-step word problems, which may involve two additions, two subtractions, or a combination of both. The teacher models the problem-solving process by:

• Reading the problem out loud to understand the context

• Using base 10 resources to represent the numbers

• Identifying step 1 and step 2, explaining how the answer from step 1 is used in step 2

A second example allows pupils to practise in pairs, with a focus on addition followed by another addition. This develops their confidence in recognising multiple operations and sequencing their calculations correctly.

In the independent activity, pupils rotate around the classroom in small group stations, with each station presenting a different two-step word problem. At each station, children identify the necessary calculations, record them on whiteboards, and use base 10 to solve the problem. Pupils then write their calculations and answers in their maths books, consolidating their learning.

The plenary activity involves analysing a problem solved incorrectly by Malachi. Pupils identify that he did not carry the answer from step 1 into step 2, causing an incorrect calculation. The correct solution (387) is then discussed, emphasising the importance of sequencing steps correctly and using reasoning to check answers.

Key questions throughout the lesson encourage children to think critically about the problem context, place value, operations, and estimation strategies. Pupils are prompted to explain problems in their own words, act them out, and check whether their answers are reasonable.

This resource is ideal for Year 3 maths lessons on two-step word problems, addition and subtraction, problem-solving strategies, and using base 10 for reasoning, supporting pupils in developing confidence, accuracy, and logical thinking when tackling multi-step calculations.