Grade 2/Subtraction
Adding and Subtracting Three Single-Digit Numbers (268)
Practice adding and subtracting 3 single-digit numbers to improve arithmetic skills.
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Teacher Resources
Lesson Plan
Mixed Addition and Subtraction Strategies
Standards
2.OA.B.2Printable Aids
Number LineCounters
Teaching Notes
Guide students to solve problems left-to-right, breaking them down into two-step operations. Encourage mental math strategies like making tens or counting on/back. Emphasize basic fact fluency.
Vocabulary
Sum: The result of adding numbers.
Difference: The result of subtracting numbers.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect order of operations (not left-to-right)
- Errors in basic addition/subtraction facts
- Mismanaging mental steps in multi-part problems
Differentiation
SupportProvide manipulatives (counters, number line) or encourage drawing pictures. Break each problem into two separate two-number problems. Focus on one operation at a time first.
ChallengeIntroduce missing number problems (e.g., 5 + ? - 2 = 6). Challenge with multi-step word problems involving three numbers, or extend to larger single-digit numbers resulting in sums over 20.
Discussion Questions
- When you have three numbers to add or subtract, what order should you follow?
- Can you think of a real-life situation where you might add or subtract three numbers?
- What strategies help you solve these problems quickly in your head?
Extension Activities
- Use number cards to make your own problems.
- Try adding first, then subtracting.
Parent Tip
Use small objects like buttons or coins to act out the problems.
Learning Path
Skill Cluster
Number Sense & Operations
Grade Level
2-3
Skills Practiced
adding single digit numberssubtracting single digit numbersorder of operations simple
Prerequisites
- Basic Addition
- Basic Subtraction
- Add two single-digit numbers (sums to 20)
- Subtract two single-digit numbers (minuends to 20)
- Basic Addition Facts Fluency
Next Steps
- Order of Operations
- Parentheses
- Add and subtract three 2-digit numbers (no regrouping)
- Solve 3-number word problems within 20
- Order of operations with addition and subtraction
- Adding and Subtracting Two-Digit Numbers (No Regrouping)
- Solve Multi-Step Word Problems (within 20)
