Easy Addition and Subtraction Word Problems for Grade 1
FAQs on Maths Word Problems for Class 1 Students
1. What is a word problem for Class 1?
A word problem for Class 1 is a short story or real-life scenario that uses words to ask a simple maths question. These problems, often called story sums, help young learners understand how maths is used every day and typically involve basic addition and subtraction using small numbers and familiar objects like toys, fruits, or animals.
2. How do you teach word problems to first graders?
Teaching word problems to first graders is most effective when you make the process visual, interactive, and relatable. This helps build foundational problem-solving skills for young learners.
- Read and Understand: Read the problem aloud slowly and help the child identify the key numbers and what the question is asking.
- Use Visuals: Use word sums with pictures or real objects like counters to represent the numbers in the story.
- Identify Clue Words: Teach them that words like 'in total' or 'altogether' often mean addition, while 'are left' or 'gives away' usually mean subtraction.
- Practice Regularly: Use printable maths word problem worksheets to build confidence through practice.
3. How do I solve maths word problems in Class 1?
To solve a Class 1 maths word problem, you should read the story carefully, find the numbers, and decide whether to add or subtract. Following a simple, step-by-step approach makes it easier.
- Read the Story: Understand what is happening in the problem.
- Find the Numbers: Circle or underline the numbers given in the story.
- Look for Clue Words: Identify words that signal an operation (e.g., 'more' for addition, 'less' for subtraction).
- Solve the Sum: Write down the numbers and perform the correct calculation.
- Write the Final Answer: Ensure the answer is written clearly, often with a label (e.g., 5 balls).
4. Are these Class 1 maths word problem worksheets available as a free PDF download?
Yes, all our Class 1 maths word problems worksheets are designed to be easily printable and are available as a free PDF download. You can simply click the download button to save the file and print the activity sheets for convenient home or classroom practice.
5. Does this worksheet include an answer key?
Yes, a complete answer key is included with our Grade 1 math word problems worksheet. Providing math word problems with answers allows for quick checking by parents and helps students self-correct, which is a crucial part of the learning process.
6. How can I use this worksheet at home?
This worksheet is an excellent tool for parents to support their child's learning at home. These printable practice sheets can be used for various purposes.
- Homework Support: To help your child understand and complete school assignments.
- Regular Practice: To reinforce early maths concepts like addition and subtraction.
- Holiday Assignments: To keep skills sharp and prevent learning loss during breaks.
- Revision: To prepare for class tests by practising real-life maths scenarios.
7. What skills are built by this activity?
Solving these word problems helps build crucial foundational skills beyond basic calculation, preparing children for more advanced maths. Key skills developed by these maths activity sheets include:
- Problem-Solving: Analysing a situation to find a solution.
- Reading Comprehension: Understanding text to extract mathematical information.
- Application of Maths: Connecting abstract numbers to real-world scenarios.
- Logical Thinking: Deciding which operation (addition or subtraction) is needed to solve the problem.
8. Are these worksheets suitable for the CBSE Class 1 syllabus?
Absolutely. These worksheets are designed to align closely with the learning objectives of the CBSE Class 1 maths syllabus and follow the NCERT pattern. The problems focus on foundational concepts like simple addition and subtraction stories using single-digit numbers, which is a core part of the early primary curriculum.
9. How do worksheets with pictures help in learning word problems?
Worksheets that feature word sums with pictures make learning more engaging and understandable for young children in Grade 1. Visuals are critical because they:
- Provide Context: Pictures help children visualize the story problem, making it less abstract.
- Aid in Counting: Students can count the objects in the pictures to help them find the solution.
- Increase Engagement: Relevant images keep young learners interested and motivated to solve problems.
10. Do these worksheets cover both addition and subtraction?
Yes, these worksheets are designed to provide comprehensive practice with both addition and subtraction. You will find a mix of problems, including dedicated addition word stories, subtraction word problems, and sometimes even mixed addition and subtraction word problems for Grade 1 to challenge students to think carefully about which operation to use.

















