Two-step word problems
You learn to solve a word problem with two steps.
How to work it out
- First find the intermediate total.
- Calculate that and use the result in the second step.
128 × 5 = 1402150 − 140 = 10
A worked example
Sarah had 15 pounds. She spent 6 pounds. How much has she got left?
This is one sum: 15 − 6 = 9.
Another example
Sarah had 15 pounds. She spent 6 pounds on a book and 4 pounds on a pen. How much has she got left?
- This needs two steps.
- First: how much did she spend? 6 + 4 = 10.
- Second: how much left? 15 − 10 = 5.
Watch out
You only work out one of the steps.
Read the question carefully. If there are two things that happen, you need two sums.
Tips
- Look for two changes or two questions in the story.
Why it works
Sometimes you need two sums to answer one question. First you work something out and use that answer in the second sum. Like: first buy, then count the change.