Multi-step problems need you to plan. Read the problem, then write what you know and what you need to find. Decide which operation comes first.
Bar models help you see the problem. Work one step at a time and write the answer to each step in words. At the end, check that the answer is sensible, for example that a number of people is a whole number.
Worked example
6 teams have 8 players each. 9 more players join. How many players are there now?
- First find the players in the teams: 6 × 8 = 48.
- Then add the new players: 48 + 9 = 57.
Answer:57 players
Key words
- operation
- add, subtract, multiply or divide
- plan
- decide the steps before calculating
- bar model
- a drawing that shows the amounts
Practise this
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: 4.OA.A.3