About This Worksheet
This worksheet gives first graders more practice solving one-step addition and subtraction word problems by matching each story to the correct answer. Students read each situation, decide whether to add or subtract, and connect the story to the number that solves it. One-step word problems teach children how math is used in everyday life. For example, if there are 8 birds in a tree and 2 fly away, the answer is 6 because 8 − 2 = 6. This activity strengthens both mathematical thinking and reading comprehension.
Curriculum and Grade Alignment
This worksheet is intended for Grade 1 students who are building confidence with simple addition and subtraction stories. Students should already understand basic facts within 20 before beginning. Solving mixed word problems helps children prepare for more advanced problem-solving activities in later grades. This worksheet supports CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.A.1 by solving one-step addition and subtraction problems and aligns with TEKS 1.6.A through representing and solving real-world situations. It encourages students to identify the correct operation before solving.
Student Tasks
On this worksheet, students will read each word problem and examine the accompanying picture. They determine whether the story requires addition or subtraction, solve the problem, and draw a line to the correct answer. Students continue until every story has been matched correctly. After finishing, they can explain how they solved each problem.
Common Challenges and Misconceptions
Some students may add when the story actually describes taking something away. Others may rely only on the picture instead of reading the full problem. A few learners may guess an answer without checking their work. Encourage students to look for clue words and think about whether the amount is growing or getting smaller.
Implementation Guidance
Teachers can use this worksheet during math workshops, partner activities, or independent review. It also works well as a small-group discussion where students explain the operation they chose. Parents can reinforce these skills by telling simple math stories during daily routines. Discussing why an answer is correct helps children become stronger problem solvers.
Details and Features
The worksheet features colorful pictures that help students visualize each word problem. Clearly separated answer choices make matching easy for beginning learners. The printable layout is neat, engaging, and appropriate for classrooms, tutoring sessions, homework, or homeschool instruction. The combination of addition and subtraction provides balanced practice.