critical thinking math 1st grade

Check Out the New Website Shop!

Novels & Picture Books

Anchor Charts

• Critical Thinking

How To Encourage Critical Thinking in Math

By Mary Montero

Share This Post:

• Facebook Share
• Twitter Share
• Pinterest Share
• Email Share

Critical thinking is more than just a buzzword… It’s an essential skill that helps students develop problem-solving abilities and make logical connections between different concepts. By encouraging critical thinking in math, students learn to approach problems more thoughtfully, they learn to analyze and evaluate math concepts, identify patterns and relationships, and explore different strategies for finding the solution. Critical thinking also involves a great deal of persistence. Those are critical life skills!

When you think about it, students are typically asked to solve math problems and find the answer. Showing their work is frequently stressed too, which is important, but not the end. Instead, students need to be able to look at math in different ways in order to truly grasp a complete understanding of math concepts. Mathematics requires logical reasoning, problem-solving, and abstract thinking.

What Does Critical Thinking in Math Look Like?

When I think about critical thinking in math, I focus on:

• Solving problems through logical thinking . Students learn how to break down complex problems, analyze the different parts, and understand how they fit together logically.
• Identifying patterns and making connections. Students learn how to identify patterns across different math concepts, make connections between seemingly unrelated topics, and develop a more in-depth understanding of how math works.
• Evaluating and comparing solutions. Students learn to evaluate which solution is best for a given problem and identify any flaws in their reasoning or others’ reasoning when looking at different solutions

Mathematician Posters

These FREE Marvelous Mathematician posters have been a staple in my classroom for the last 8+ years! I first started using a version from MissMathDork and adapted them for my classroom over the years. 

I print, laminate, and add magnetic stickers on the back. At the beginning of the year, I only put one or two up at a time depending on our area of focus. Now, they are all hanging on my board, and I’ll pull out different ones depending on our area of focus. They are so empowering to my mathematicians and help them stay on track!

A Marvelous Mathematician:

• knows that quicker doesn’t mean better
• looks for patterns
• knows mistakes happen and keeps going
• makes sense of the most important details
• embraces challenges and works through frustrations
• uses proper math vocabulary to explain their thinking
• shows their work and models their thinking
• discusses solutions and evaluates reasonableness
• gives context by labeling answers
• applies mathematical knowledge to similar situations
• checks for errors (computational and conceptual)

Critical Thinking Math Activities

Here are a few of my favorite critical thinking activities. 

Square Of Numbers

I love to incorporate challenge problems (use Nrich and Openmiddle to get started) because they teach my students so much more than how to solve a math problem. They learn important lessons in teamwork, persistence, resiliency, and growth mindset. We talk about strategies for tackling difficult problems and the importance of not giving up when things get hard.

This square of numbers challenge was a hit!

ALL kids need to feel and learn to embrace challenge. Oftentimes, kids I see have rarely faced an academic challenge. Things have just come easy to them, so when it doesn’t, they can lack strategies that will help them. In fact, they will often give up before they even get started.

I tell them it’s my job to make sure I’m helping them stretch and grow their brain by giving them challenges. They don’t love it at first, but they eventually do! 

This domino challenge was another one from Nrich . I’m always on the hunt for problems like this!!  How would you guide students toward an answer??

Fifteen Cards

This is a well-loved math puzzle with my students, and it’s amazing for encouraging students to consider all options when solving a math problem.

We have number cards 1-15 (one of each number) and only seven are laid out. With the given clues, students need to figure out which seven cards should be put out and in what order. My students love these, and after they’ve done a few, they enjoy creating their own, too! Use products, differences, and quotients to increase the challenge.

This is also adapted from Nrich, which is an AMAZING resource for math enrichment!

This is one of my favorite fraction lessons that I’ve done for years! Huge shout out to Meg from The Teacher Studio for this one. I give each child a slip of paper with this figure and they have to silently write their answer and justification. Then I tally up the answers and have students take a side and DEBATE with their reasoning! It’s an AMAZING conversation, and I highly recommend trying it with your students. 

Sometimes we leave it hanging overnight and work on visual models to make some proofs. 

Logic Puzzles

Logic puzzles are always a hit too! You can enrich and extend your math lessons with these ‘Math Mystery’ logic puzzles that are the perfect challenge for 4th, 5th, and 6th grades. The puzzles are skills-based, so they integrate well with almost ANY math lesson. You can use them to supplement instruction or challenge your fast-finishers and gifted students… all while encouraging critical thinking about important math skills!

Three levels are included, so they’re perfect to use for differentiation.

• Introductory logic puzzles are great for beginners (4th grade and up!)
• Advanced logic puzzles are great for students needing an extra challenge
• Extra Advanced logic puzzles are perfect for expert solvers… we dare you to figure these puzzles out! 

Do you have a group of students who are ready for more of a fraction challenge? My well-loved fraction puzzlers are absolutely perfect for fraction enrichment. They’ll motivate your students to excel at even the most challenging tasks! 

Math Projects

Math projects are another way to differentiation while building critical thinking skills. Math projects hold so much learning power with their real-world connections, differentiation options, collaborative learning opportunities, and numerous avenues for cross curricular learning too. 

If you’re new to math projects, I shared my best tips and tricks for using math projects in this blog post . They’re perfect for cumulative review, seasonal practice, centers, early finisher work, and more.

I use both concept-based math projects to focus on specific standards and seasonal math projects that integrate several skills.

Error Analysis

Finally, error analysis is always a challenging way to encourage critical thinking. When we use error analysis, we encourage students to analyze their own mistakes to prevent making the same mistakes in the future.

For my gifted students, I use error analysis tasks as an assessment when they have shown mastery of a unit during other tasks. For students in the regular classroom needing enrichment, I usually have them complete the tasks in a center or with a partner.

For students needing extra support, we complete error analysis in small groups.  We go step-by-step through the concept and they are always able to eventually identify what the error is. It is so empowering to students when they finally figure out the error AND it helps prevent them from making the same error in the future!

My FREE addition error analysis is a good place to start, no matter the grade level. I show them the process of walking through the problem and how best to complete an error analysis task.

When you’re ready for more, this bundle of error analysis tasks contains more than 240 tasks to engage and enrich your students in critical thinking practice.

If you want to dig even deeper, visit this conceptual vs computational error analysis post to learn more about using error analysis in the classroom. 

Related Critical Thinking Posts

• How to Increase Critical Thinking and Creativity in Your “Spare” Time
• More Tips to Increase Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is essential for students to develop a deeper understanding of math concepts, problem-solving skills, and a stronger ability to reason logically. When you learn how to encourage critical thinking in math, you’re setting your students up for success not only in more advanced math subjects they’ll encounter, but also in life. 

How do you integrate critical thinking in your classroom? Come share your ideas with us in our FREE Inspired In Upper Elementary Facebook group .

Mary Montero

I’m so glad you are here. I’m a current gifted and talented teacher in a small town in Colorado, and I’ve been in education since 2009. My passion (other than my family and cookies) is for making teachers’ lives easier and classrooms more engaging.

You might also like…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

One Comment

Mary Thankyou for your inspirational activities. I have just read and loved the morning talk activities. I do have meetings with my students but usually at end of day. What time do you

©2023 Teaching With a Mountain View . All Rights Reserved | Designed by Ashley Hughes

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Lost your password?

Review Cart

No products in the cart.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Math Tips, Tricks, and Games

Tips to Improve Critical Thinking Skills with 1st Grade Math Word Problems

Last Updated on May 31, 2022 by Thinkster

Developing critical thinking skills with math word problems is incredibly important. Students should move beyond simple rote memorization and fact-finding to understand the thought process and concept behind those facts.

In doing so, students are developing strong thinking skills that can help them become successful lifelong learners.

In elementary school, first grade math word problems are a great place to start teaching critical thinking strategies.

Here are some tips to help your first grader think through word problems with a critical mind.

Create a Plan

To be a strong critical thinker, your child needs to take the time to plan and strategize before tackling a problem.

You can teach your child to do this by having her read the problem, then dissect what it is asking.

She can then underline the important information in the problem and create a picture or diagram to represent what the problem is asking.

This ensures that he is taking the steps to carefully outline and identify what the problem is asking.

Teaching these steps early on is also incredibly important, as your child will face multi-step problems and ones with distractors in the future.

Ask “Why?”

One of the keys to critical thinking in math is being able to not just do the problem, but also to explain why.

In first grade math word problems, the “why” is often quite simple to identify, but you should still be asking.

Find out why the child chose to count, add or subtract. Have him explain his reasoning in his own words and help him write it down. Then, talk about how he came to that conclusion, encouraging him to continue to think about the problem and his steps for solving it.

Ask “Does It Make Sense?”

Most first grade math word problems are fairly clear in what they are asking the child to do, and your child should stop and reflect on his answer to see if it makes sense.

For example, if the problem creates a scenario where a person has a certain amount of an item and someone gives him more, the answer should be a larger number than he started with, which you would get by adding. If the child chose to subtract, the answer will be smaller than what you started with.

Use an online math program, like Thinkster, to help with math word problems

Critical thinking is a crucial component of Thinkster Math’s  curriculum .

Thinkster’s curriculum introduces critical thinking problems within the first grade curriculum, giving your child the opportunity to practice and sharper skills and strategies that will help them become incredible lifelong learners and thinkers.

Curious to see your child’s abilities in solving first-grade word problems?

If you’re looking for  online  math   tutoring  to help your child, you can try   Thinkster risk-free .

Thinkster provides a full-fledged  online  tutoring  platform (driven by AI, behavioral, and data science), as well as supplemental  math  worksheets ,  math   homework  help ,  test prep , and more. Our  Parent Insights App  allows you to monitor your  student ‘s work and  learning  improvements at any time.

An elite,  expert  math   tutor  and  online teaching  system work together to help your  student  go beyond just  learning   math  – we want them to master it.

Learn more about our curriculum and teaching style  here .

Subscribe to Thinkster Blog

Recommended Articles

• Tips for Parents

Mastering Math: How to Crack Challenging Math Problems in Under a Minute!

• Learning Math

Unlocking the Code: Teaching Mathematical Symbols and Their Meaning

Critical Thinking Skills for First Grade

John zaphyr.

For first-graders, learning to read, learning basic mathematical skills, and learning to write numbers are top priorities. But of all the basic skills young students learn, critical thinking is one of the most important. Applying, analyzing and evaluating information is one of the foundations of education and, if taught at an early age, students can master the art of thinking critically.

Explore this article

• What is Critical Thinking?
• Critical Thinking Learning Strategies
• Developing Critical Thinking Skills

1 What is Critical Thinking?

The National Council for Excellence in Critical Thinking defines the skill of critical thinking as the “intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from, or generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication, as a guide to belief and action.” In real world terms, critical thinkers are active learners. They are people who constantly question what they see or hear, and who want to know what details lay beneath the surface.

2 Critical Thinking Learning Strategies

There are many strategies for teaching these skills in the classroom. Just a few of the recommended strategies from the American Institute of Research include learning in group settings, open-ended questioning methods and applying lessons to real-life settings. Open-ended questioning from the teacher, for example, allows students to look for answers rather than mnemonically regurgitate the “right” answer. That type of investigative thinking is crucial to learning critical thinking. Showing how a skill transfers to real world situations also enhances a student’s ability to think critically. A student might be more motivated to learn, for example, if his lesson relates to coins in his piggy bank.

3 Developing Critical Thinking Skills

According to the Council for Exceptional Children, teachers can develop the basic critical thinking skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation in their students through various classroom activities and lines of questioning. The way a teacher frames a question is especially important here. The open-ended questioning model can be used to help facilitate discussion and thinking, but the types of questions will ultimately guide the learning activities. When students are analyzing a story or problem, teachers should urge children to look at differences, explain what they are seeing and compare two like or unlike things. In activities where students are synthesizing information, such as in a reading or science activity, teachers should be asking them to create or invent new ideas or to compare and contrast what they are seeing. “What if” questions such as “What if you were a character in the story?” help students work through synthesizing problems. When evaluating, students should be asked to judge or decide if something is right or wrong, correct or incorrect. Measuring, selecting and explaining are all good ways to get students to make judgments based on a certain set of predetermined criteria. Math and science subjects are good places to work on evaluating results. Any activities involving these critical thinking skills should be based on fun and the natural inquisitive nature of children. Games or writing activities involving questioning are techniques to get children engaged.

• 1 Criticalthinking.org

About the Author

John Zaphyr is a marketing and sales manager with the Oncology Nursing Society. He has written professionally since1999 and also has editing credits with Friedlander Publishing Group. His articles have appeared in the "Pittsburgh Tribune Review." John earned a master's degree in English education from the University of Pittsburgh.

Related Articles

Activities for Each Level of Bloom's Taxonomy

List of Critical Thinking Skills

What Is Educational Evaluation?

What Are the Steps to Critical Thinking According to...

Higher Order Level Thinking Skills in Math Grade 5

Importance of Curriculum to Teaching

Indirect and Direct Assessment Methods

MCAS Open-Response Questions

Interpersonal Classroom Activities on Multiple Intelligences

Examples of Common Assessments in High School

How to Use Comics to Teach Inferences

Constructivist Teaching in Kindergarten

What Is the Purpose of Classroom Assessments?

What Are Anchor Charts?

Teaching Strategies for Piaget's Concrete Stage

Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Middle School...

Objective Vs. Subjective Evaluation Criteria

What Is Expository Writing?

Cognitive-Based Learning

Fact and Opinion Games for Kids

Regardless of how old we are, we never stop learning. Classroom is the educational resource for people of all ages. Whether you’re studying times tables or applying to college, Classroom has the answers.

• Accessibility
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Copyright Policy
• Manage Preferences

© 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Based on the Word Net lexical database for the English Language. See disclaimer .

• Kindergarten
• Greater Than Less Than
• Measurement
• Multiplication
• Place Value
• Subtraction
• Punctuation
• 1st Grade Reading
• 2nd Grade Reading
• 3rd Grade Reading
• Cursive Writing

Math Critical Thinking Questions For Grade 1

Math Critical Thinking Questions For Grade 1 - Displaying top 8 worksheets found for this concept.

Some of the worksheets for this concept are 81 fresh fun critical thinking activities, The critical thinking, The test of critical thinking, Unit1criticalthinking unitlength2weeks, 7 critical thinking skills of common core, When and how, 2013 math framework grade 1, Math mammoth grade 4 a.

Found worksheet you are looking for? To download/print, click on pop-out icon or print icon to worksheet to print or download. Worksheet will open in a new window. You can & download or print using the browser document reader options.

1. 81 Fresh & Fun Critical-Thinking Activities

2. the critical thinking, 3. the test of critical thinking, 4. unit%1:%critical%thinking% % % % unit%length:%2%weeks ..., 5. 7 critical thinking skills of common core -, 6. when and how, 7. 2013 math framework, grade 1, 8. math mammoth grade 4-a.

• Administrator
• Teacher How To's
• How It works
• All Worksheets
• Math Worksheets
• ELA Worksheets

Math for 1st Graders

Explore our first grade math resources aligned to the 1st grade common core math curriculum. Enjoy learning key math concepts taught in the first grade, including counting, addition and subtraction strategies, word problems, picture graphs, telling time, counting money, comparing measurements, and much more. Perfect grade 1 math resources for teachers, parents, and kids! Start now for free!

CONTENT TYPE

• Lesson Plans
• Math (2,055)
• Number Sense (558)
• Number Recognition (220)
• Number Recognition Within 3 (3)
• Number Recognition Within 5 (2)
• Number Recognition Within 10 (5)
• Number Recognition Within 20 (210)
• Number Sequence (21)
• Number Sequence Within 20 (3)
• Number Sequence Within 50 (5)
• Number Sequence Within 100 (5)
• Number Sequence Within 120 (4)
• Backward Sequence from 20 (2)
• Counting (168)
• Counting Objects Within 3 (10)
• Counting Objects Within 5 (20)
• Counting Objects Within 10 (37)
• Counting Objects Within 20 (10)
• Writing Numbers (200)
• Writing Numbers Within 20 (200)
• Number Representation (46)
• Compare and Order Numbers (94)
• Compare Numbers (88)
• Compare Numbers within 10 (29)
• Compare Objects within 10 (10)
• Compare Without Visual Support (10)
• Compare Numbers within 20 (29)
• Compare Numbers Using Place Value Blocks (10)
• Compare Numbers Without Visual Support (10)
• Compare Numbers within 100 (30)
• Use Place Value Blocks to Compare Numbers (10)
• Compare Two 2-Digit Numbers (10)
• Order Numbers (6)
• Order Numbers within 10 (3)
• Order Numbers within 20 (3)
• Skip Counting (8)
• Skip Count by 10 (8)
• Place Value (68)
• Read and Write Numbers (42)
• Numbers up to 10 (5)
• Numbers up to 20 (6)
• Numbers up to 50 (7)
• Numbers up to 100 (17)
• Unit Form (5)
• Addition (768)
• Embedded Numbers (4)
• Addition Sentences (55)
• Addition Sentence within 5 (11)
• Addition Sentence within 10 (44)
• Add with Pictures (33)
• Add with Pictures within 5 (22)
• Add with Pictures within 10 (11)
• Model Addition (232)
• Addition Properties (14)
• Commutative Property of Addition (8)
• Add Using Models (10)
• Addition Strategies (410)
• Addition Strategies within 10 (262)
• Count On to Add Strategy (39)
• Add using number line (9)
• Compose and Decompose Numbers (212)
• Number Bonds (197)
• Addition Strategies within 20 (104)
• Anchor 5 and 10 (12)
• Count On Strategy (18)
• Add with 10 (13)
• Make 10 Strategy (18)
• Doubles and Near Doubles Strategy to Add (31)
• Doubles Facts (13)
• Add Three Whole Numbers (16)
• Addition Strategies within 100 (42)
• Add using multiples of 10 (12)
• Addition Strategies within 1000 (3)
• Add using multiples of 100 (3)
• Addition Facts (186)
• Fluently Add within 5 (9)
• Fluently Add within 10 (79)
• Fluently Add within 20 (105)
• Equal Expressions (31)
• Addition Without Regrouping (61)
• Add within 100 without Regrouping (61)
• Add 2-digit number to 1-digit (12)
• Add 2-digit number to 2-digit (48)
• Addition With Regrouping (25)
• Add within 100 with Regrouping (25)
• Regroup and add 2-digit number to 1-digit (12)
• Regroup and add 2-digit numbers (12)
• Subtraction (443)
• Subtraction Sentences (40)
• Subtraction Sentences within 5 (7)
• Subtraction Sentences within 10 (32)
• Subtract with Pictures (41)
• Subtract with Pictures within 5 (25)
• Subtract with Pictures within 10 (16)
• Model Subtraction (45)
• Subtract using Models (7)
• Subtraction Strategies (114)
• Subtraction Strategies within 10 (32)
• Count Back Strategy within 10 (25)
• Relate Addition and Subtraction within 10 (6)
• Subtraction Strategies within 20 (68)
• Count Back Strategy within 20 (40)
• Subtract using number line (10)
• Relate Addition and Subtraction within 20 (10)
• Doubles and Near Doubles Strategy to Subtract (4)
• Subtract from 10 Strategy (10)
• Subtraction Strategies within 100 (14)
• Subtract using multiples of 10 (14)
• Subtraction Facts (168)
• Fluently Subtract within 5 (4)
• Fluently Subtract within 10 (78)
• Fluently Subtract within 20 (97)
• Equal Expressions in Subtraction (26)
• Subtraction Without Regrouping (65)
• Subtract within 100 without Regrouping (65)
• Subtract Multiples of 10 (17)
• Subtraction With Regrouping (28)
• Subtract within 100 with Regrouping (28)
• Geometry (123)
• Sides and Corners (12)
• Corners (11)
• Shapes (108)
• 2d Shapes (80)
• Identify Quadrilaterals (10)
• Trapezoids (10)
• Identify triangles (7)
• Identify polygons (1)
• Attributes of 2D shapes (11)
• Sort 2D shapes (10)
• Partition 2D Shapes (17)
• Partition into equal parts (13)
• Halves, Thirds, and Fourths (10)
• 3d Shapes (16)
• Flat and Solid Shapes (12)
• Match 3D Shapes (10)
• 3D Shapes in real life (10)
• Measurement (77)
• Capacity (6)
• Comparing Measurements (42)
• Compare Weights (10)
• Compare Lengths (22)
• Compare Heights (10)
• Data Handling (25)
• Organize and Interpret Data (18)
• Sort Objects (6)
• Measure Lengths (2)
• AM and PM (8)
• Analog Clock (29)
• Hour hand (12)
• Set time (7)
• Digital Clock (9)
• Time in Half Hours (19)
• Time in Hours (17)
• Identify Coins (20)
• Value of the Coins (10)
• Counting Money (54)
• Compare Money (2)
• Count Money with Coins (25)
• Penny, Nickel, and Dime (17)
• Word Problems (141)
• Addition and Subtraction Word Problems (141)
• Addition Word Problems (68)
• Addition Word Problems within 10 (29)
• Addition Word Problems within 20 (26)
• Addition Word Problems within 100 (10)
• Add to Compare Word Problems (6)
• Subtraction Word Problems (43)
• Subtraction Word Problems within 10 (17)
• Subtraction Word Problems within 20 (14)
• Subtraction Word Problems within 100 (9)
• Subtract to Compare Word Problems (6)
• ELA (2,072)
• Reading (1,495)
• Phonics (1,456)
• Bossy R (27)
• Words with AR (10)
• Words with ER (8)
• Words With IR (8)
• Words with OR (7)
• Words with UR (8)
• Ending Consonant Blends (91)
• CK Blend (7)
• LF Blend (13)
• LK Blend (14)
• LT Blend (13)
• MP Blend (12)
• ND Blend (13)
• NK Blend (14)
• SK Blend (12)
• ST Blend (12)
• NG Blend (7)
• Beginning Consonant Blends (89)
• L Blend Words (40)
• BL Blend (14)
• CL Blend (13)
• FL Blend (13)
• GL Blend (10)
• PL Blend (11)
• SL Blend (10)
• R Blend Words (36)
• CR Blend (12)
• FR Blend (12)
• GR Blend (11)
• PR Blend (13)
• TR Blend (12)
• Letter Sounds (111)
• Letter Sound A (5)
• Letter Sound B (5)
• Letter Sound C (5)
• Letter Sound D (5)
• Letter Sound E (5)
• Letter Sound F (5)
• Letter Sound G (5)
• Letter Sound H (5)
• Letter Sound I (3)
• Letter Sound J (4)
• Letter Sound K (5)
• Letter Sound L (5)
• Letter Sound M (5)
• Letter Sound N (4)
• Letter Sound O (5)
• Letter Sound P (5)
• Letter Sound Q (3)
• Letter Sound R (5)
• Letter Sound S (5)
• Letter Sound T (5)
• Letter Sound U (2)
• Letter Sound V (3)
• Letter Sound W (4)
• Letter Sound X (2)
• Letter Sound Y (4)
• Letter Sound Z (2)
• Vowels (221)
• Long Vowel Sounds (124)
• Long A Vowel Sound (26)
• Long E Vowel Sound (27)
• Long I Vowel Sound (26)
• Long O Vowel Sound (24)
• Long U Vowel Sound (23)
• Magic - E (35)
• Magic E Words with Long Vowel A (12)
• Magic E Words with Long Vowel E (6)
• Magic E Words with Long Vowel I (12)
• Magic E Words with Long Vowel O (11)
• Magic E Words with Long Vowel U (11)
• Short Vowel Sounds (60)
• Short A Vowel Sound (16)
• Short E Vowel Sound (10)
• Short I Vowel Sound (16)
• Short O Vowel Sound (9)
• Short U Vowel Sound (9)
• Vowel Teams (47)
• Words with AI and AY (13)
• Words with EA and EE (13)
• Words with IE and Y (11)
• Words with OA and OW (13)
• Words with OO (10)
• Words with UE and UI (9)
• Blending (314)
• CCVC Words (34)
• CVCC Words (81)
• CCVC and CCVCC Words (28)
• CVCC and CCVCC Words (46)
• Words With Bossy R (45)
• Words With Vowel Teams (50)
• Consonant Digraphs (11)
• Digraph CH (2)
• Digraph CK (5)
• Digraph NG (5)
• Digraph SH (2)
• Digraph TH (2)
• Digraph WH (2)
• Rhyming Words (71)
• Trigraphs (1)
• Trigraph DGE (1)
• Trigraph IGH (1)
• Trigraph TCH (1)
• Soft Sounds (2)
• Words with Soft C (1)
• Words with Soft G (1)
• Sight Words (581)
• Dolch Sight Words (150)
• Fry Sight Words (84)
• Syllables (6)
• Hard and Soft Sounds of C and G (2)
• Reading Skills (30)
• Story Elements (3)
• Authors Purpose (3)
• Compare and Contrast (3)
• Ask and Answer Questions (2)
• Central Message (3)
• Point of View (3)
• Sensory Words (3)
• Reality and Fantasy (2)
• Using Illustrations (3)
• Using Text Features (3)
• Context Clues (3)
• Communication Skills (9)
• Listening Skills (3)
• Speaking Skills (6)
• Writing (378)
• Writing Sight Words (20)
• Creative Writing (6)
• Grammar (23)
• Adverbs and Adjectives (4)
• Nouns and Pronouns (10)
• Pronouns (2)
• Prepositions and Conjunctions (3)
• Conjunctions (1)
• Prepositions (2)
• Punctuation (1)
• Sentences (2)
• Verbs and Tenses (3)
• Determiners (2)
• Vocabulary (157)
• Affixes (3)
• Inflectional Endings (2)
• Synonyms and Antonyms (2)
• Word Puzzles (53)
• Shades of Meaning (3)
• Sorting Words into Categories (19)
• Making Connections in Reading (4)
• Flashcards (21)
• Phonics Flashcards (19)
• Grammar Flashcards (2)

Number Sense

• Count by 1s within 20 Game

Enter the madness of math-multiverse by exploring how to count by 1s within 20.

Missing Numbers on Hundred Chart Game

Dive deep into the world of math by finding the missing numbers on the hundred chart.

Counting Sequence Worksheet

Kids must practice counting sequence in this worksheet.

Count Numbers upto 20 Worksheet

Use this printable worksheet to count numbers upto 20 to strengthen your math skills.

Solve Addition Sentences Game

Learn how to solve math problems by solving addition sentences.

Identify the Total Game

Kids must identify the total to practice addition.

Find the Missing Numbers Worksheet

Assess your math skills by finding the missing numbers in this worksheet.

Guess the Missing Numbers Worksheet

Combine math learning with adventure by guessing the missing numbers.

Subtraction

Use Subtraction Sentences to find the difference Game

Dive deep into the world of subtraction by using subtraction sentences to find the difference.

Identify the Difference Game

Let your child see the world through math-colored shades with our 'Identify the Difference' game!

Identify the Correct Subtraction Sentence Worksheet

Focus on core math skills with this fun worksheet by identifying the correct subtraction sentence.

• Subtraction on 10-frames Worksheet

Use this printable worksheet to practice subtraction on 10-frames to strengthen your math skills.

Two Equal Shares Game

Dive deep into the world of geometry by learning about two equal shares.

Four Equal Shares Game

Ask your little one to select the option that shows four equal shares.

Color Shapes Divided into Equal Parts Worksheet

Focus on core math skills with this fun worksheet by coloring shapes divided into equal parts.

Identify and Color Equal Parts Worksheet

Put your skills to the test by identifying and coloring equal parts.

Measurement

Align and Compare Lengths Game

Enjoy the marvel of math-multiverse by exploring how to align and compare lengths.

Equal Lengths Game

Practice the concept of equal lengths with your little one through this game.

Which One is Longer Worksheet

Learn measurement at the speed of lightning by practicing to identify which one is longer.

Which One is Shorter Worksheet

In this worksheet, learners will get to identify the shorter one.

The Hour Hand Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by playing 'The Hour Hand' game.

• The Minute Hand Game

Take a look at the minute hand with this fun game about time.

Hour Hand and Minute Hand Worksheet

Be on your way to become a mathematician by practicing the hour hand and the minute hand.

Position of Hour and Minute Hand Worksheet

Make math practice a joyride by solving problems to position the hour and minute hand correctly.

Different Types of Coins Game

Explore different types of coins with your little one.

Count Coins of a Type Game

Have your own math-themed party by learning how to count coins of a type.

Count the Coins to Answer Worksheet

Learners must count the coins correctly to enhance their math skills.

Identify the Coin Worksheet

Dive into this fun-filled printable worksheet by practicing to identify the coin.

Word Problems

Solve Count On Scenarios Game

Begin the exciting journey of becoming a math wizard by learning how to solve count on scenarios.

Represent 'Add To' Scenarios Game

Learn to solve math problems through our 'Represent 'Add To' Scenarios' game.

Find the Sum Using Part-Part-Whole Model Worksheet

Combine math learning with adventure by solving to find the sum using 'Part-Part-Whole' model.

Write Equations Using Part-Part-Whole Model Worksheet

Learn number sense at the speed of lightning by writing equations using 'Part-Part-Whole' model.

All Math Resources

Complete the Number Sentence Worksheet

This downloadable worksheet is designed to help you complete the number sentence.

Squares and Trapezoids Game

Take a look at squares and trapezoids with this geometry game.

Complete Subtraction Sentence Using Pictures Worksheet

Help your child revise subtraction by completing subtraction sentences using pictures.

Shapes in Everyday Life Worksheet

Pack your math practice time with fun by exploring shapes in everyday life.

Time of Activities of the Day Worksheet

Look at the time of activities of the day by printing this playful worksheet.

Guess the Price Worksheet

Dive into this fun-filled printable worksheet by practicing to guess the price.

Add or Subtract within 10: Summer Word Problems Worksheet

Summer-themed worksheet challenging students to solve addition or subtraction problems within 10.

Guess the Odd One Out Worksheet

Focus on core math skills with this fun worksheet by solving to guess the odd one out.

Complete the Number Bond Worksheet

Complete the number bond to practice your math skills.

Triangles and Rectangles Game

Take a look at triangles and rectangles with this geometry game.

Represent Subtraction Sentences Worksheet

Make math practice a joyride by solving problems to represent subtraction sentences.

How Many Corners and Sides Worksheet

Learn geometry at the speed of lightning by practicing all about corners and sides.

Identify Coins & Values Worksheet

Solidify your math skills by practicing to identify coins & values.

Add or Subtract within 20: Summer Word Problems Worksheet

Engaging summer-themed worksheet to master addition and subtraction within 20 through word problems.

Missing Numbers on Number Line Game

Take a deep dive into the world of math by finding the missing numbers on the number line.

Find the Sum Game

Kids must find the sum to practice addition.

Counting Using 10-frames Worksheet

Put your skills to the test by counting using 10-frames.

Counting Dots on Ladybugs Worksheet

This downloadable worksheet is designed to practice math skills by counting dots on ladybugs.

Solve Word Problems to Find the Difference Game

Kids must solve word problems to find the difference to practice subtraction.

Identify Shapes by Name Game

Practice the superpower of mathematics by learning to identify shapes by their names.

Use Pictures to Subtract Worksheet

Learners must use pictures to subtract to enhance their math skills.

Identify the Flat Shapes Worksheet

Reinforce math concepts by practicing to identify the flat shapes.

Align and Compare Heights Game

Kids must align and compare heights to practice measurement.

Read Time in Half Hours Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to read time in half hours.

• Compare Lengths of Objects Worksheet

Reveal the secrets of math wizardry by practicing to compare the lengths of objects.

Separate Out the Coin Game

Take a deep dive into the world of math by correctly separating out the coin.

Solve 'Add To' Scenarios Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by solving 'Add To' scenarios.

Understanding Coins Worksheet

Reinforce math concepts by practicing to understand coins.

Add or Subtract within 10: Halloween Word Problems Worksheet

Engage in this Halloween-themed worksheet, solving fun addition and subtraction problems within 10.

Browse Our Fun Collection of 1st Grade Math Learning Resources!

We are happy to introduce SplashLearn's grade 1 math resources, designed for 6-7 year old kids. Our learning program includes interactive games , fun worksheets , detailed lesson plans , live classes, and more, all focusing on making math for first grade a fun learning experience.

These 1st grade resources help kids learn and practice math skills, such as counting, comparing and ordering numbers, place value models up to 100, addition and subtraction strategies, addition and subtraction word problems, comparing lengths, data handling with picture graphs, telling time using analog clocks, identifying coins, counting money, and much more! 

These resources encourage first graders' growing curiosity in math, turning common learning challenges into enjoyable learning experiences. Let’s help kids learn and master the grade 1 math curriculum in a fun and interactive way!

Types of Engaging 1st Grade Math Learning Resources

Let’s explore our wide range of engaging resources for 1st grade math online, all designed to make math fun and engaging.  

Key Features of 1st Grade Math Resources

Here are some amazing features of our 1st grade math learning resources.

• Curriculum-Aligned: 1st grade math resources are in line with the common core math 1st grade, with regular updates. This ensures kids learn essential skills from the first grade math curriculum through fun activities.
• Fun & Engaging: Features exciting activities, fun characters, attractive themes, and colorful visuals.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Games seamlessly work on various devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Chromebooks. Worksheets can be accessed easily through a PC or laptop.
• Flexible and Easy to Use: Ideal and convenient for 1st grade kids, parents, and teachers.

Best Tips for Teaching First Grade Math to Kids

Consider these useful tips to simplify math for 1st graders:

• Understand the curriculum : Learning about the 1st grade math curriculum and its key goals is crucial. This clarity helps focus on important concepts. Read Most Important Math Concepts Kids Learn in the First Grade to get an overview of math concepts taught in the 1st grade. A perfect blog for teachers and parents!
• Use different learning resources : Use different learning methods, such as games, worksheets, etc. This ensures students stay engaged and interested in the learning process. These resources go beyond traditional methods and offer fun learning experiences.
• Real-world connections : Make math fun and relatable for kids through everyday activities, such as counting steps on stairs, identifying positions of minute hand and hour hand, etc. These strategies help make learning math for 1st graders relevant, fun, and enjoyable.

What Are the Best 5 First Grade Math Resources for Kids?

Here are 5 fun 1st grade online math resources:

• Math Lesson Plan — Addition & Subtraction Word Problems Magic

How will our 1st grade math online educational resources benefit your child?

First grade math resources help make math learning convenient for children. Kids can practice important math skills at any time from any place by using these resources. They also allow children to practice at a pace they’re comfortable with, thus providing them with personalized, student-centered learning. First grade learning math resources promote critical thinking skills in children. Kids learn to use their analytical and logical skills to solve math problems which enhances their critical thinking. Practicing math for 1st graders becomes more fun and engaging through online educational resources. Kids can practice essential math concepts by playing interactive games and solving fun worksheets that make the process of learning enjoyable for them.

What are the important topics in math for first graders?

Some important topics in math for 1st graders include measurement, time, money, word problems, addition, subtraction, geometry and number sense.

How can we get first graders excited to learn math?

First grade learning math resources can be used to teach essential math topics to children. These resources, including math games and math worksheets , promote math talk in children which subsequently increases their interest in mathematics. Real-time activities can be used to teach first grade math to children. For example, clocks can be used to teach the concept of time, grocery shopping can be used to teach the concept of money, kids can sort different objects in the house to learn about 3D shapes like a ball is a sphere, a block is a cube, a party hat is a cone, etc. This helps children to get excited about practicing math as they learn to relate mathematical concepts to real life. You can set up various milestones for math learning with your child. This motivates children to practice as they start perceiving different topics as achievable areas for learning and succeeding.

Your one stop solution for all grade learning needs.

• Try for free

Telling Time: Critical Thinking (Gr. 1)

Scott Foresman, an imprint of Pearson

Featured 1st grade resources.

Related Resources

• Toys & Games
• Learning & Education
• Electronic Learning Toys
• Learning Systems

No featured offers available

• Quality Price,
• Reliable delivery option, and
• Seller who offers good customer service

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

LeapFrog LeapStart 1st Grade Activity Book: Spy Math & Critical Thinking, 5 years to 7 years

Math and Critical Thinking

Thinking Like a Scientist

• Use your super-sleuthing skills and help Opal Possum track down Sneaks Weasel, while exploring math and critical thinking. Teaches 18 math and critical thinking skills: identifying fractions, solving problems with unknown numbers, solving word problems and more.
• Get on the case and use super-sleuthing skills to explore math and critical thinking. Solve addition and subtraction equations to trace Sneaks’ path out of town. Add three numbers together to find the keys that will unlock a door at the costume shop for the right costume.
• Match the times to the clues heard, and then match digital times to the clocks in the window. Sit down at a café and order a fraction of a pie by matching pies to the order cards. Solve puzzles with a spinning Spy Decoder that encourages critical thinking.
• Spy Math is for Level 4: 1st Grade. Perfect for ages 5-7. Works With: LeapStart Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten, LeapStart Kindergarten & 1st Grade (Sold separately.)
• Includes 30+ replayable activities and 25+ reward stickers. Skills learned include mathmatical reasoing, more than/less than, place value, telling time, and critical thinking.

Similar items that may deliver to you quickly

Product information

Product description.

LeapFrog LeapStart 1st grade activity book: Spy Math and critical thinking

What's in the box

• LeapStart Activity Book

Looking for specific info?

Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the learning and quality of the book. They mention that it offers lots of fun ways to learn about the universe. Some appreciate the interactive education tool and the well put together book. However, some disagree on performance.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the Space Science Activity Book great for learning, an excellent interactive education tool, and a great helper in their learning. They say it offers lots of fun ways to learn about the universe, and is engaging.

"...This was a great way for him to "read " without forcing me to stay awake." Read more

"I purchased this for my son. The book keeps him interested in the games it uses to help him identify worded mathematical equations, solve numerical..." Read more

"...It is interesting and "clever"...." Read more

"...Its a great learning tool that enhances his school work ." Read more

Customers like the quality of the book. They mention it's a great buy, with interesting content and a well put together book.

"...Then I found this. What a great addition to their collection ." Read more

"...It makes him keep going back to it. Great buy ." Read more

"...He really enjoys this book; however, it does not have the appeal that brings him back day after day [he's more of a "hands on" lego guy]." Read more

" Interesting well put together book for kids. Encourages and stimulates interact in the subject" Read more

Customers find the product fun, durable, and educational. They also say it keeps them well busy and is a perfect activity for the car.

"My daughters love it!!! And I do too! It s éducative and keeps them well busy !" Read more

" Fun and durable" Read more

"Engaging, perfect activity for the car ." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the performance of the toy. Some mention that it works well, while others say that it doesn't work.

"...actually be with their kids and not trouble shooting and downloading books that don't work ." Read more

"It worked very well got my 6 year old." Read more

"Was never able to download the book onto the pen. Never worked . Waste of money" Read more

" Excellent tool ..." Read more

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Start Selling with Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Host an Amazon Hub
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

FREE Book Bracket Template. For March and Beyond!

Check Out These 50 First-Grade Math Word Problems of the Day

Desmond saw 5 bunnies.

Opening your daily math lesson with a Math Word Problem of the Day is an excellent way to set the stage for learning. We all know that word problems are difficult for young learners to grasp, even when the mathematical operation portion of the problem is basic.

Incorporate these first grade math word problems one day at a time at the start of your math block to build confidence, critical thinking skills, and a learning community. Students will get used to reading slowly for meaning, while also identifying key information. Encourage students to write out equations and draw pictures to explain their thinking, since this helps them see the light when they are stuck!

Topics covered include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and comparison. All you need to do is post one of these first grade math word problems on your whiteboard or projector screen. Then let kids take it from there!

Want this entire set of word problems in one easy document? Get your free PowerPoint bundle by submitting your email here .

50 First Grade Math Word Problems

1. I had 6 pencils, and my teacher gave me 4 more. How many pencils do I have now?

2. Gina’s dog got 3 treats on Sunday and 0 treats on Monday. How many treats did Gina’s puppy get in all?

3. Joel went to the zoo with his family. During the first hour he was there he saw a bear, 2 tigers, and 3 lions. How many animals did Joel see in his first hour at the zoo?

4. Jackson sorted his toy cars by color. He has 6 blue cars, 5 green cars, and 4 black cars. How many cars does Jackson have in all?

5. Ben has 2 green balloons and 4 yellow balloons. How many balloons does he have altogether?

6. There are 3 kids in the Clark family. Tina is 3, Joshua is 4, and Samantha is 7. If you add up all their ages, what is the sum of the Clark kids?

7. If you go for a swim and 6 of your friends come along, how many friends are swimming in total?

8. Rachel’s mom had some flowers in a vase. 3 of the flowers wilted and Rachel’s mom took them out of the vase. Now there are 5 flowers in the vase. How many flowers were in the vase to start with?

9. Hayden’s cat had a litter of kittens. 3 kittens were gray, 2 kittens were spotted, and 7 kittens were black. How many kittens did Hayden’s cat have?

10. Pedro brought in 3 red leaves and 6 yellow leaves from the playground. How many leaves does he have in all?

11. Gabriella read 3 books on Monday, 6 books on Tuesday, and 4 books on Wednesday. How many books did Gabriella read in all?

12. If you have 3 cats, 2 guinea pigs, and a bunny. How many cute little noses do they have altogether?

13. If there are 3 inches of snow on the ground in the morning and we get 3 more inches of snow by dinner time. How many inches of snow did we get that day?

14. My cat has 4 paws and my brother’s dog has 4 paws. How many paws are there in all?

15. I had 10 pennies, but I lost 2 of them. How many pennies do I have now?

16. Santiago read 7 books over the summer. Ryan read 5 books. How many more books did Santiago read than Ryan?

17. Andrew put 10 stickers on his notebook. When he got to school he noticed some of the stickers had fallen off. Now Andrew only has 6 stickers on his notebook. How many stickers fell off Andrew’s notebook?

18. Nicole likes to help her mom pick tomatoes from their garden. She counted 9 tomatoes in the garden. 6 tomatoes were red and the rest were green. Nicole and her mom picked all the red tomatoes. How many green tomatoes did Nicole and her mom leave in the garden?

19. My sister and I have 20 pennies. If my sister has 10 pennies, how many pennies do I have?

20. The zoo had 8 tigers. 3 of the tigers moved to another zoo. How many tigers were left?

21. Esther read 3 poems. Magenna read some more poems. Altogether they read 7 poems. How many poems did Magenna read?

22. Haley’s dad bought 8 cheeseburgers. Haley ate 1 of them. How many cheeseburgers does Haley’s dad have left?

23. If you boil 7 eggs in water, and the number of eggs that float is one more than the number that sink, how many eggs float?

24. Rasheed loves to eat jellybeans. His favorite jellybeans are the yellow ones. There were 12 jellybeans in his bag. Rasheed removed all the yellow jellybeans and ate them, leaving 6 jellybeans in his bag. How many yellow jellybeans did Rasheed eat?

25. The gym teacher had 5 basketballs. The next week the gym teacher got some new basketballs. Now the gym teacher has 9 basketballs. How many new basketballs did the gym teacher get?

26. Jamal has 6 toy airplanes and his brother has 4 toy airplanes. How many more toy airplanes does Jamal have than his brother?

27. Antonio has some marbles. His brother Alex gives him 5 more. Now Antonio has 8 marbles. How many marbles did Antonio have to begin with?

28. If you have an 8-pack of crayons and you give your friend 3 of them to use during drawing time. How many crayons do you have in your pack now?

29. Emily has 4 pink erasers and some white erasers. She has 7 erasers in all. How many white erasers does Emily have?

30. Angel serves pizza at her birthday party. The pizza has 12 slices. 8 slices of pizza are eaten by Angel and her guests. How many slices of pizza are left?

31. If you have 9 toys on the floor and your little brother has 6 toys on the floor. How many more toys on the floor do you have?

32. There are 8 windows in the classroom. Some of the windows have decorations on them, 2 of them don’t have any directions. How many windows have decorations?

33. On Saturday, you brought home some fish from the pet store. If 15 of your 18 fish have stripes. How many of your fish are without strips?

34. 8 birds flew to the top of a fence. Some birds flew away and 6 birds stayed. How many birds flew away?

35. There were 6 books on Noah’s shelf. Olivia took some of the books. Now there are 2 books on the shelf. How many books did Olivia take?

36. Ethan has some folders in his backpack and 4 folders in his desk. He has 8 folders altogether. How many folders are in his backpack?

37. Liam has 8 t-shirts. 5 of them have superheroes on them, and the rest are solid colors. How many of Liam’s t-shirts are solid colors?

38. Mary was putting together a 20 piece puzzle. After she finished, she discovered that only 18 pieces were there. How many pieces were missing?

39. Nicholas has 7 cousins. Some of his cousins are girls and 3 of his cousins are boys. How many girl cousins does Nicholas have?

40. It snowed for 6 hours on Monday and 4 hours on Tuesday. How many more hours did it snow on Monday?

41. Charlie’s mom baked 12 chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Charlie ate 2 cookies and his mom and 1 cookie. How many chocolate cookies were left?

42. Melanie has 16 purple pens. Dante has 10 blue pens. Melanie has ____ more pens than Dante has.

43. Sofia has 75 pennies in her bank. How many more pennies will she need to have 100 pennies in her bank?

44. There were 9 cups of soda on the table. Some of the cups were knocked over, and 6 were still standing. How many cups of soda were knocked over?

45. Griffin has 20 board games. Some were under his bed, and 15 were in his closet. How many board games were under Griffin’s bed?

46. Antonio spotted 3 deer sitting at the top of a hill, but all he could see were their eyes. How many eyes did Antonio see in all?

47. Desmond saw 5 bunnies. He counted all of their ears. How many bunny ears did Desmond count?

48. Katie counted all of her toes, and then she counted all her mom’s toes. How many toes did Katie count altogether?

49. Which weighs more? A 15-pound red fox or a 24-pound wild turkey?

50. Which weighs more: a 150-pound white-tailed deer or a 110-pound kangaroo?

Enjoying these first grade math word problems? Check out our first grade hub for even more resources.

Get a PPT version of these word problems.

You Might Also Like

Check Out These 50 Second-Grade Math Word Problems of the Day

Hunter has 47 baseball cards in his collection. Continue Reading

Copyright © 2023. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

• Skip to main content

Use promo code: SJT15OFF to take an extra 15% off your first purchase!

Susan Jones Teaching

Teaching Resources

Three Ways to Promote Higher Order Thinking in the Primary Grades!

susanjones February 22, 2017 4 Comments

This post may contain affiliate ads at no cost to you. See my disclosures for more information.

This post is also featured on the TpT blog .

What is higher order thinking?

Real world problems:.

WORKING BACKWARDS:

GUESS & SOLVE:

I also have many fun warm up, modeled lessons, and activities for first grade in my yearlong math workshop curriculum . If you are interested in embedding higher order thinking into ALL your daily math lessons, check out the lesson by clicking the image below:

Looking for more standards-based math games that will engage your learners and save you lots of time?!

Join hundreds of primary teachers over in the SJT Math Club:

You may also enjoy these posts...

Reader Interactions

February 23, 2017 at 1:16 am

Where can I find the Dress Teddy paper?

February 23, 2017 at 1:18 pm

Hi Sara! That can be found in my higher order thinking math tasks, here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Higher-Order-Thinking-Math-Tasks-First-Grade-1775335

February 23, 2017 at 5:10 pm

These are great ideas. Higher order thinking is so important it needs to start as early as possible. Great post.

January 9, 2019 at 4:23 am

I would love to receive emails on higher level questioning to incorporate into the classroom.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Free CVC Word Mapping Mats

Sign up for my free email newsletter and receive these free CVC Word Mapping Mats to help with your next lesson plan!

Check out these popular math resources!

We have loads of great math resources over in the shop. Here are just a few I pulled together for you!

Math Games for 1st Grade: Print, Play, LEARN!

Number Sense Activities (0-20)

Telling Time Games

Subtraction Games & Activities

Hello friends.

Welcome to Susan Jones Teaching. When it comes to the primary grades, learning *All Things* in the K-2 world has been my passion for many years! I just finished my M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction and love sharing all the latest and greatest strategies I learn with you through this blog and my YouTube channel! I hope you'll enjoy learning along with me :)

More About Me

• Our Mission

6 Ways to Improve Students’ Math Literacy

Middle and high school math teachers can use these ideas to build students’ reading comprehension and reasoning skills using real tasks like budgeting.

While a lot has changed in math instruction over the years, the idea that students need to be math literate has been constant. Being math literate means much more than calculations. Life events such as buying a home, paying taxes, or even estimating how much you’ll spend on groceries require modeling and reasoning skills.

State and district tests often include problems that are real-world based, and that means that students will need to use reading comprehension, along with math skills, in order to show proficiency. This can be particularly difficult for students with learning disabilities, those who have had interrupted schooling, and/or emergent multilingual learners. It’s imperative that math teachers develop a tool kit to help students decipher the math moves needed for such problems.

Through my dissertation research and my many years of teaching mathematics with great math teachers, I have found simple ways to help students become more math literate. Here are some practical ideas on how teachers can help students become math literate, from the perspective of Algebra 1 teachers from various backgrounds.

6 Ways to Help Students Gain Math Literacy

1. Use sentence frames. Sentence frames are a simple way to help students of all backgrounds learn how to state their answers and ask any questions they have about a word problem. Teachers can post sentence frames on a board or even on students’ desks for easy access. Here are some examples:

• “I agree with this answer because ____.”
• “I believe the answer is ____ because ____.”
• “I showed my work by ____.”
• “One strategy that may be helpful is ____ because ____.”

2. Bring back the highlighter. Many Algebra 1 teachers agree that the highlighter is a great way to help emphasize learning in mathematics. The highlighter gives students control of the parts of the problem that they find important. A good suggestion is to demonstrate the use of highlighting key words and have highlighters available for every task and assessment. It also helps students see the patterns in math problems.

3. Speak “algebra.” Students in all math classes need to be speaking math in their classes. It’s important to use the appropriate vocabulary words that pertain to the lesson. This is particularly important as students see formal math language in textbooks and standardized tests. Yes, breaking down the vocabulary for comprehension is a great tactic, but bringing it back to the standard math vocabulary is how we make connections.

4. Use word walls. The word wall was an important part of many math classrooms a few decades ago. They made sure that students saw math words that related to a particular topic being taught. For example, when introducing a polynomial unit, teachers would often put words such as monomial , trinomial , and polynomial on the word wall.

Many Algebra 1 teachers feel that having the visual is most important as students learn about new topics. Students need visual reminders. One suggestion was for students to “own” the word wall by passing out the words in advance and having them hang up each word as it was introduced throughout the unit. Students can make the words artsy and creative in an effort to personalize the resource.

5. Provide foldables or graphic organizers. The use of foldables in the math classroom is a game changer for many students, especially in the post-pandemic era. These low-tech student- or teacher-made “books” constructed out of folded paper provide learners with a handy place to write down the main concepts introduced in a unit. Students have been so used to math technology that there is a need to bring them back to tactile methods.

Providing a foldable to sum up or even begin a unit is a cost-effective method and allows students to use paper and scissors in a creative way to refer to math vocabulary and common word problems. You can find lots of free ideas for foldables online , and there are sites that sell them as well. Some of the designs are very creative and bring a bit of visual art into your math classroom.

6. Have students write relevant word problems. Every time there’s a new curriculum or textbook, word problems get a refresher to connect with the current generation, but there’s no reason why students can’t make up their own. Allow them to write their own word problems, using the context you’re teaching. Not only will students own their own learning, but also they will be able to use critical thinking skills to combine math, vocabulary, and everyday life to further their understanding.

Making the math classroom become a laboratory of reading and math enables students to become owners of the learning process. Students can be math literate, which will allow teachers to facilitate learning processes with all types of word problems, and consequently improve math scores and prepare students for the world of infusing mathematics into their everyday lives.

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

• Order Tracking
• Create an Account

200+ Award-Winning Educational Textbooks, Activity Books, & Printable eBooks!

• Compare Products

Reading, Writing, Math, Science, Social Studies

• Search by Book Series
• Algebra I & II  Gr. 7-12+
• Algebra Magic Tricks  Gr. 2-12+
• Algebra Word Problems  Gr. 7-12+
• Balance Benders  Gr. 2-12+
• Balance Math & More!  Gr. 2-12+
• Basics of Critical Thinking  Gr. 4-9
• Brain Stretchers  Gr. 5-12+
• Building Thinking Skills  Gr. Toddler-12+
• Building Writing Skills  Gr. 3-7
• Bundles - Critical Thinking  Gr. PreK-9
• Bundles - Language Arts  Gr. K-8
• Bundles - Mathematics  Gr. PreK-9
• Bundles - Multi-Subject Curriculum  Gr. Toddler-12+
• Bundles - Test Prep  Gr. Toddler-12+
• Can You Find Me?  Gr. PreK-1
• Complete the Picture Math  Gr. 1-3
• Cornell Critical Thinking Tests  Gr. 5-12+
• Cranium Crackers  Gr. 3-12+
• Creative Problem Solving  Gr. PreK-2
• Critical Thinking Activities to Improve Writing  Gr. 4-12+
• Critical Thinking Coloring  Gr. PreK-2
• Critical Thinking Detective  Gr. 3-12+
• Critical Thinking Tests  Gr. PreK-6
• Critical Thinking for Reading Comprehension  Gr. 1-5
• Critical Thinking in United States History  Gr. 6-12+
• CrossNumber Math Puzzles  Gr. 4-10
• Crypt-O-Words  Gr. 2-7
• Crypto Mind Benders  Gr. 3-12+
• Daily Mind Builders  Gr. 5-12+
• Dare to Compare Math  Gr. 2-7
• Developing Critical Thinking through Science  Gr. 1-8
• Dr. DooRiddles  Gr. PreK-12+
• Dr. Funster's  Gr. 2-12+
• Editor in Chief  Gr. 2-12+
• Fun-Time Phonics!  Gr. PreK-2
• Half 'n Half Animals  Gr. K-4
• Hands-On Thinking Skills  Gr. K-1
• Inference Jones  Gr. 1-6
• James Madison  Gr. 8-12+
• Jumbles  Gr. 3-5
• Language Mechanic  Gr. 4-7
• Language Smarts  Gr. 1-4
• Mastering Logic & Math Problem Solving  Gr. 6-9
• Math Analogies  Gr. K-9
• Math Detective  Gr. 3-8
• Math Games  Gr. 3-8
• Math Mind Benders  Gr. 5-12+
• Math Ties  Gr. 4-8
• Math Word Problems  Gr. 4-10
• Mathematical Reasoning  Gr. Toddler-11
• Middle School Science  Gr. 6-8
• Mind Benders  Gr. PreK-12+
• Mind Building Math  Gr. K-1
• Mind Building Reading  Gr. K-1
• Novel Thinking  Gr. 3-6
• OLSAT® Test Prep  Gr. PreK-K
• Organizing Thinking  Gr. 2-8
• Pattern Explorer  Gr. 3-9
• Practical Critical Thinking  Gr. 9-12+
• Punctuation Puzzler  Gr. 3-8
• Reading Detective  Gr. 3-12+
• Red Herring Mysteries  Gr. 4-12+
• Red Herrings Science Mysteries  Gr. 4-9
• Science Detective  Gr. 3-6
• Science Mind Benders  Gr. PreK-3
• Science Vocabulary Crossword Puzzles  Gr. 4-6
• Sciencewise  Gr. 4-12+
• Scratch Your Brain  Gr. 2-12+
• Sentence Diagramming  Gr. 3-12+
• Smarty Pants Puzzles  Gr. 3-12+
• Snailopolis  Gr. K-4
• Something's Fishy at Lake Iwannafisha  Gr. 5-9
• Teaching Technology  Gr. 3-12+
• Tell Me a Story  Gr. PreK-1
• Think Analogies  Gr. 3-12+
• Think and Write  Gr. 3-8
• Think-A-Grams  Gr. 4-12+
• Thinking About Time  Gr. 3-6
• Thinking Connections  Gr. 4-12+
• Thinking Directionally  Gr. 2-6
• Thinking Skills & Key Concepts  Gr. PreK-2
• Thinking Skills for Tests  Gr. PreK-5
• U.S. History Detective  Gr. 8-12+
• Understanding Fractions  Gr. 2-6
• Visual Perceptual Skill Building  Gr. PreK-3
• Vocabulary Riddles  Gr. 4-8
• Vocabulary Smarts  Gr. 2-5
• Vocabulary Virtuoso  Gr. 2-12+
• What Would You Do?  Gr. 2-12+
• Who Is This Kid? Colleges Want to Know!  Gr. 9-12+
• Word Explorer  Gr. 6-8
• Word Roots  Gr. 3-12+
• World History Detective  Gr. 6-12+
• Writing Detective  Gr. 3-6
• You Decide!  Gr. 6-12+

Balance Math™ & More! Level 1

Sharpening critical thinking, computational, & algebraic reasoning skills.

Grades: 2-5

Mathematics

•  Multiple Award Winner
• Paperback Book - $10.99
• eBook - $10.99

Description and Features

This fun, mind-building 48-page book is made up of three types of puzzles that focus on addition and subtraction of whole numbers. These puzzles also sharpen students' critical thinking, computational, and algebraic reasoning skills.

This book's spiraling difficulty is designed to scaffold a student's conceptual understanding of the targeted operations from beginning to advanced achievement. Teaching suggestions and detailed solutions are included in each book.

Try one of these intriguing puzzles— and then try to stop!

Product Details

General license - download.

SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT

IMPORTANT-READ CAREFULLY

This is a legal agreement between you (a single entity, company, or educational institution) and The Critical Thinking Co.™ for the software accompanying this agreement, which includes computer Software and associated Documentation. By installing this Software on a computer, you agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. If you do not agree to the terms of this agreement, promptly erase all copies of the software in your possession and return any Software packaging associated with this order within sixty (60) days of purchase to the place from which you obtained it for a full refund.

The Critical Thinking Co.™ hereby grants to you a non-exclusive license to use the software product identified above (the "Software") and the accompanying printed materials and User Manual (the "Documentation") on the terms set forth below.

1. GRANT OF LICENSE. The Critical Thinking Co.™ grants you the right to install and use this Software Product, provided that this software will be installed only in the quantity and for the computer system(s) indicated at the time of your order for the Software.

2. COPYRIGHT. The Software Product and Documentation are protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties as well as other intellectual property laws and treaties. Therefore, you must treat the Software Product like any other copyrighted material. You may not remove, modify, or alter any of The Critical Thinking Co.'s™ copyright or trademark notices from any part originally contained in or otherwise created by the Software Product, including any notices contained in the Documentation.

3. RESTRICTIONS. You may not modify, translate, reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, or create derivative works based on the Software, or any portion thereof. The Software Product is licensed as a single product. This Software Product can be installed on a computer as a whole and shall not be separated in parts or disassembled to parts or pieces. You may not rent, lease, or lend the Software or Documentation to any other party without the written permission of The Critical Thinking Co.™. The License is in effect until terminated. The License will terminate automatically if you fail to comply with the limitations described herein. On termination, you must destroy all copies of the Software and Documentation.

4. WARRANTIES. The Critical Thinking Co.™ expressly disclaims any warranty for the Software Product. The Software and Documentation is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including, without limitation, the implied warranties or merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The entire risk arising out of use or performance of the Software remains with you. If media within this package is defective, remove the software application from your device(s) and return any software packaging associated with this order to The Critical Thinking Co.™ within 60 days of the date of purchase, and they will replace it at no charge.

5. NO LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. In no event shall The Critical Thinking Co.™ or its suppliers be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or any other pecuniary loss) arising out of the use of or inability to use this Software Product, even if The Critical Thinking Co.™ has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Because some states/jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.

6. MISCELLANEOUS. This Agreement represents the complete agreement concerning this license between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and representations between them. This Agreement may be amended only in writing executed by both parties. The acceptance of any purchase order placed by you is expressly made conditional on your assent to the terms set forth herein, and not those contained within your purchase order. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be unenforceable for any reason, such provision shall be reformed only to the extend necessary to make it enforceable and the remainder of this Agreement shall nonetheless remain in full force and effect. If you acquired this product in the United States, the laws of the State of California govern this Agreement. If this product was acquired outside the United States, then local laws may apply. Should you have any questions concerning this Agreement, or if you desire to contact The Critical Thinking Co.™ for any reason, please write to The Critical Thinking Co.™, PO Box 1610, Seaside, CA 93950-1610, USA; send a fax to 831-393-3277; send email to [email protected]; call 800-458-4849; or refer to The Critical Thinking Co.™'s Website at http://www.criticalthinking.com/ .

Creative Child Magazine, 2012 - Seal of Excellence Award

Bundle Content

Customer reviews, other products in the same series view product series page.

• Add to Cart Add to Cart Remove This Item
• Special of the Month
• Sign Up for our Best Offers
• Bundles = Greatest Savings!
• Sign Up for Free Puzzles
• Sign Up for Free Activities
• Toddler (Ages 0-3)
• PreK (Ages 3-5)
• Kindergarten (Ages 5-6)
• 1st Grade (Ages 6-7)
• 2nd Grade (Ages 7-8)
• 3rd Grade (Ages 8-9)
• 4th Grade (Ages 9-10)
• 5th Grade (Ages 10-11)
• 6th Grade (Ages 11-12)
• 7th Grade (Ages 12-13)
• 8th Grade (Ages 13-14)
• 9th Grade (Ages 14-15)
• 10th Grade (Ages 15-16)
• 11th Grade (Ages 16-17)
• 12th Grade (Ages 17-18)
• 12th+ Grade (Ages 18+)
• Test Prep Directory
• Test Prep Bundles
• Test Prep Guides
• Preschool Academics
• Store Locator
• Submit Feedback/Request
• Sales Alerts Sign-Up
• Technical Support
• Mission & History
• Articles & Advice
• Testimonials
• Our Guarantee
• New Products
• Free Activities
• Libros en Español