enVision Mathematics Grade 3, Topic 11: Use Operations with Whole Numbers to Solve Problems
In this unit, your child solves two-step story problems that can use addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division. They decide what to do first and next, write an equation with a letter for the unknown number, and estimate to see if the answer makes sense. It brings together the year's work so far before fractions begin in the next unit.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Topic 11?
- Planning two-step problems, writing an equation like 4 × 5 − 3 = n with a letter for the unknown, and estimating to check. Learn more: Story problems with two steps
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
A bakery made 500 cookies. They sold 235 on Saturday and 190 on Sunday. How many are left?
- 75
- 85
- 175
How you can help
- Pose a shopping question with two steps, such as having $20 and buying 2 boxes of cereal at $4 each, and ask how much money is left ($12).
- Ask your child to tell you their plan before solving a problem you pose, saying what they will do first and what they will do next.
- Before checking an answer, ask your child whether it makes sense in the story, such as whether more stickers could be left than were bought.
Where kids can get stuck
- Using every number in the story, so an extra detail like the days in a week ends up in the math.
- Reporting the 18 stickers bought instead of the 13 left after giving 5 away.
- Picking an operation from one key word instead of picturing what is happening in the story.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- two-step problem
- A word problem that needs two operations to solve.
- equation
- A math sentence showing two sides with the same value.
- variable
- A letter, like n, that stands for an unknown number.
- unknown
- A missing number in a problem that we need to work out.
- estimate
- A smart guess close to the real answer, often found by rounding.
- reasonable
- Sensible; close to what you expected the answer to be.
Want to help your child master two-step word problems?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
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Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does enVision Mathematics Grade 3 Topic 11 cover?
enVision Mathematics Grade 3 Topic 11 covers this math standard. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 3.OA.D.8: Solve two-step word problems: add, subtract, multiply, or divide.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.