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Multi-Step Word Problems Using All Four Operations

Mathematics Grade 4 Difficulty 2/5

Beginning of the lesson

Multi-Step Word Problems: Using All Four Operations

What Are Multi-Step Word Problems?

Multi-step word problems are like puzzles that need more than one calculation to solve. Just like building with blocks, you need to complete one step before you can do the next!

Single-Step Problem

Example: You have 24 cookies. You eat 5. How many are left?

Solution: 24 - 5 = 19 cookies

Just ONE calculation needed!

Multi-Step Problem

Example: You have 3 boxes with 8 cookies each. You eat 5 cookies. How many are left?

Step 1: 3 × 8 = 24 cookies total

Step 2: 24 - 5 = 19 cookies left

TWO calculations needed!

The Problem-Solving Process

Step 1: READUnderstand thesituationStep 2: IDENTIFYWhat do you needto find?Step 3: FINDAll giveninformationStep 4: PLANWhat operationsand order?Step 5: SOLVEWork throughstep by stepStep 6: CHECKDoes it makesense?Step 7: ANSWERWrite completeanswer with units

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In the full lesson

  • The complete explanation
  • Worked examples
  • Common mistakes and how to avoid them
  • Test questions: 64
  • AI tutor that answers questions about the topic
  • Progress tracking for students, parents and teachers