Add 3 Numbers Word Problem Worksheets

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There are four sets of 3 addends worksheets for first grade:
3 Addends, Make 10 First (printable)
3 Addends Word Problems (printable)
3 Addends, Sprint 1 (Online)
3 Addends, Sprint 2 (Online)

Add 3 Numbers Word Problem Worksheets

Forming a 10 is a great strategy for adding 3 numbers in first grade. It helps kids break down the problem into smaller, easier steps.

Make a Ten Team:
Look for pairs of numbers that add up to 10. Here are the number pairs that equal 10:
1+9=10
2+8=10
3+7=10
4+6=10
5+5=10
6+4=10
7+3=10
8+2=10
9+1=10
10+0=10
Add the Third Number to 10:

So, by forming a 10 with two numbers and then adding the third one, we can easily find the sum of 3 numbers.

Here are some examples:
We have 2 red, 8 orange, and 3 purple balloons. The red and orange balloons make a 10 team, and adding the purple one gives us 13.
We have 6 pink, 3 brown, and 7 white balloons. The brown and white balloons make a 10 team, and adding the pink one gives us 16.

Remember:
This strategy works best when at least two of the numbers add up to 10.
Encourage kids to draw pictures or use objects to visualize the 10 team.

Have a look at this video, if you need to review how to add 3 numbers using the make 10 strategy.