Reveal Math Grade 2, Unit 1: Math All Around Us
In this unit, your child starts second grade by noticing math in the world around them. They solve addition and subtraction story problems within 100, using drawings, bar models, and equations to show what is happening. This first unit sets the tone for the year and leads into building fluency with addition and subtraction facts within 20.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 1?
- Solving one- and two-step story problems about familiar things, deciding whether to add or subtract, and showing the story with a drawing or an equation. Learn more: One- and two-step story problems within 100
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
What is 80 minus 20?
- 50
- 60
- 70
How you can help
- Point out a math story on a walk: 'There are 9 birds on the wire and 6 fly off. How many are left?' Then let your child make up the next story for you.
- Turn cleanup time into a story: '23 blocks are on the floor. You put away 10. How many are left?' Ask what your child did to find the answer.
- Ask a two-step question at the store: 'We have 15 apples. We use 4 for lunch, then buy 10 more. How many will we have?' Talk through each step.
Where kids can get stuck
- Choosing to add or subtract from one key word, instead of thinking about what is happening in the story.
- Stopping after the first step of a two-step problem and giving that amount as the answer.
- Losing track of what each number means, then using the wrong one in the second step.
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
- sum
- The answer when you add. In 8 + 5 = 13, the sum is 13.
- difference
- The answer when you subtract. In 13 - 5 = 8, the difference is 8.
- equation
- A number sentence with an equal sign, like 13 - 5 = 8.
- unknown
- The number you are trying to find, often shown with a box or a question mark.
- bar model
- A drawing of bars that shows the parts and the whole in a story problem.
- two-step problem
- A story problem that needs two math steps to solve.
Want to help your child master math story 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.
Join the club
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 Reveal Math Grade 2 Unit 1 cover?
Reveal Math Grade 2 Unit 1 covers this math standard. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 2.OA.A.1: Use addition and subtraction within 100 to solve word problems.
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.