Add-Libs: Addition Word Problems (1.OA.A.1 & 1.OA.C.6)
2-3 Addition Word Problems (1.OA.A.1 & 1.OA.C.6)
Word problems are a relevant way for students to practice math concepts within meaningful, realistic scenarios. Add-Libs is an engaging activity for students to practice creating and solving their own word problems!
Similar to traditional Mad-Libs, students fill in the blanks according to the directions. (This may take some review of parts of speech, but makes for a great cross-curricular lesson!)
Model the Add-Libs Activity
This activity should be modeled for students prior to them completing it independently. Start by displaying an Add-Libs activity for the class. Together, fill in the blanks, taking student input into consideration. It is okay to be a little silly! After filling in the blanks, solve the addition word problem together. Here is a sample Add-Lib you can use to introduce your class to the world of Add-Libs:
___________ (name) has ____ (number 1-10) pieces of ___________ (fruit).
___________ (name) has _________(number 1-10) pieces of _______ (different fruit).
How many pieces of fruit do they have altogether?
Click Here to Download More Add-Libs
Create Your Own Add-Libs Game
Creating your own Add-Libs is easy! In addition to the language arts connection, Add-Libs can also be created in alignment with content in other subject areas as well. Consider adding science and social studies topics, vocabulary, etc. to your Add-Libs for additional cross-curricular learning opportunities. Here are some ideas you can include as fill-in-the-blank options:
- Numbers 1-10, Numbers 10-20, etc.
- Odd Numbers & Even Numbers
- 2D and 3D Shapes
- Parts of Speech: Nouns, Verbs, Adjectives, etc.
- Color Words
- Types of Animals
- Types of Food
- Holiday Words
The beauty of creating your own Add-Libs is the ability to easily differentiate for your students. Numbers within the Add-Libs can easily be modified to meet the needs of your students. For instance, students still working on adding numbers 1-10 can practice doing so with Add-Libs containing only numbers 1-10. For students who are ready for more of a challenge with larger numbers or different operations, Add-Libs can easily be created for them also!
Add-Libs make a great warm up, extension activity, or even a center activity. After enough practice solving different Add-Libs, some students may even be ready to create their own!
This Lesson if from our 1st Grade Math Curriculum
Unit 2 - Addition and Subtraction within 10
The rest of Unit 2 covers...
Do you want instant access to all of our 1st Grade Math Intervention Activities Right Now?
Click the button below to Join The Intervention Adventures Community.
