grade 2 problem solving activities

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$Math Workbooks for Grade 2$

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2nd Grade Math Word Problems Worksheets

Math word problem worksheets for grade 2.

These word problem worksheets place 2nd grade math concepts in contexts that grade 2 students can relate to. We provide math word problems for addition, subtraction, multiplication, time, money and fractions.

We encourage students to read and think about the problems carefully, and not just recognize an answer pattern. We facilitate this by:

providing a number of mixed word problem worksheets (e.g. subtraction questions mixed in with addition questions)
sometimes including irrelevant data within word problems so students must understand the context before applying a solution

Addition word problems for grade 2

Simple addition (1-2 digits)

Slightly harder addition (1-3 digits)

Subtraction word problems for grade 2

Simple subtraction (1 and 2 digit numbers)

Subtracting 1-3 digit numbers

Mixed addition and subtraction word problems

Mixed addition and subtraction within 20

Mixed addition and subtraction (two digits)

More mixed addition and subtraction word problems

Multiplication word problems

Multiplication within 25

Measurement word problems

Length word problems

Time word problems

Time and elapsed time (1/2 hour intervals)

Time and elapsed time (5 minute intervals)

Money word problems

Counting money (coins and bills)

Fraction word problems

Understanding fractions

Write and compare fractions from a story

Mixed word problems

Mix of all above types of grade 2 word problems

Mix of just addition / subtraction / multiplication word problems

Sample Grade 2 Word Problem Worksheet

25 Second Grade STEM Challenges To Help Kids Think Creatively

So much fun, they won’t realize they’re learning!

Examples of Second Grade STEM Challenges as an example of first day of school activities

We’re a big fan of STEM challenges for kids and the way they give students a chance to grow through hands-on learning. This collection of second grade STEM challenges encourages young learners to problem-solve as they explore more about how the world works.

Plus, these activities are so easy to set up! Post one of these second grade STEM challenges on your whiteboard or projector screen and give kids the simple supplies. Then step back and watch them go!

Want this entire set of STEM challenges in one easy document? Get your free PowerPoint or Google Slides bundle of these second grade STEM challenges by submitting your email here, so you’ll always have the challenges available.

Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!

25 Second Grade STEM Challenges

Use plastic straws, masking tape, and construction paper to make a raft with a sail..

TOMNK 500 Multicolored Plastic Drinking Straws

Build the tallest tower you can with uncooked spaghetti and mini marshmallows.

Stack 5 paper plates and 10 toilet paper tubes to make a structure that can support the most books..

Stock Your Home 9″ Paper Plates, 500 Count

Use newspapers and masking tape to build a table that can hold a cup full of water.

Lichamp 10-Pack of Masking Tape 55 Yard Rolls

Design a domino chain reaction that climbs up a pile of books.

Lewo 1000 Pcs Wood Dominoes Set

Build the tallest possible tower using one roll of aluminum foil.

Make a marble track using aluminum foil, plastic straws, and duct tape., find a new use for a cardboard box. you can use scissors, masking tape, and crayons too., stack 50 plastic cups into the tallest tower you can..

Clear Disposable Plastic Cups, 500 Pack

Construct a basket from one paper plate, one sheet of copy paper, and masking tape. It must have a handle and be able to hold 20 jelly beans.

Design and build a bird feeder out of lego bricks., build a bridge between two desks using only plastic forks..

400 Light-Weight White Disposable Plastic Forks

Use a roll of twine to construct a spiderweb between two chair legs.

15-Pack Multicolored Jute Twine

Find three ways to pop a balloon without poking it with something sharp.

Use pipe cleaners to design a new kind of cup holder..

Zees 1000 Pipe Cleaners in Assorted Colors

Construct the tallest tower you can using clothespins and wood craft sticks.

Whitmore 100 Natural Wood Clothespins
Pepperell 1000 Natural Wood Craft Sticks

Build a model of an animal using toothpicks and marshmallows.

1000 Count Natural Bamboo Toothpicks

Use newspaper and masking tape to make a shirt you can put on and take off again.

Make a new toy from cardboard tubes. you can use other supplies like crayons, glue, scissors, etc., design a kite that really flies using a plastic grocery bag, drinking straws, string, and scotch tape., build 12 different shapes using pipe cleaners., assemble a stack of 10 plastic cups. then find three different ways to knock the stack down without touching it with any part of your body., use one sheet of copy paper to make a container that holds the most popcorn. you can use scissors and tape, too., build a pyramid of 10 plastic cups without touching the cups with your hands. you can use 3 rubber bands and 5 one-foot pieces of string., work in a group to put together a simple puzzle. all members of your group except one will be blindfolded and not allowed to talk. the person who isn’t blindfolded may speak, but cannot touch the pieces..

Like these second grade STEM challenges? Try these 20 Simple and Fun Second Grade Science Experiments and Activities .

Plus, 50 Easy Science Experiments Kids Can Do With Stuff You Already Have .

Yes! I Want the Second Grade STEM Challenges

50 STEM Activities for Kids of All Ages and Interests

Inspire the innovators of tomorrow. Continue Reading

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Second Grade Math Worksheets and Printables

Calculate the Fun with Second Grade Math Worksheets

Math Worksheets
2nd Grade Math

Engaging second Grade math activities, games, and worksheets for free

Are you looking for fun and effective ways to help your second grader learn math? Do you want to make math more enjoyable and engaging for your child? Do you need free resources to supplement your math curriculum or homeschooling program? If you answered yes to these questions, this article is for you!

In this resource, we will share with you some of the most unique and engaging second Grade math activities, games, and worksheets for free from MathSkills4Kids . These free printable math resources are perfect for at-home learning or in the classroom. From addition and subtraction to geometry and measurement , there's something for every young learner.

In addition to these fun activities, we will share with you some benefits of learning math at an early age , some tips and tricks from experts on making math fun and engaging for your second graders , some of the best free online math games for second Grade , etc.

By the end of this article, you will have everything you need to help your second grader master math skills and have fun along the way!

Why second Grade math matters: The benefits of learning math at an early age

Math is a subject that students must learn in school and a skill they will use throughout their lives. Learning math at an early age can have many benefits for children, such as:

Improving their logical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Enhancing their creativity and imagination
Developing their confidence and self-esteem
Preparing them for higher-level math and other subjects in the future
Opening up more opportunities and career choices for them

Therefore, you must help your second grader develop a positive attitude toward math and a strong foundation of math skills . You can do this by providing them with engaging and meaningful math activities, games, and worksheets to spark their interest and curiosity in math.

$Engaging second Grade math activities, games, and worksheets for free$

DOWNLOAD WORKSHEETS

FUN MATH ONLINE

Counting & number patterns

Printable 2nd Grade counting and number patterns PDF activities for kids

Comparing ansd ordering numbers

2nd Grade math made easy: Comparing and ordering numbers worksheets and activities

Reading and writing numbers

Shape patterns

Adding of 1-digit numbers

Effective strategies for adding 1-digit numbers: Grade 2 worksheets Pdf

Subtracting of 1-digit numbers

Mastering subtracting 1-digit strategies: 2nd Grade worksheets and activities

How to make math fun and engaging for your second graders: Tips and tricks from experts

One of the challenges many parents and teachers face is making math fun and engaging for their second graders . Many second graders may find math tedious, complex, or frustrating, which can affect their motivation and performance in math. To avoid this, here are some tips and tricks from experts on how to make math enjoyable for your second graders:

Use real-life examples and situations to show them how math is relevant and valuable in everyday life.
Use manipulatives, such as blocks, coins, dice, cards, etc., to help them visualize and understand math concepts.
Use games, puzzles, riddles, jokes, stories, songs, etc., to make math fun and interactive.
Use different learning modes, such as visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc., to cater to their learning styles and preferences.
Use positive reinforcement, praise, rewards, etc., to encourage them and celebrate their achievements in math.
Use challenges, competitions, quizzes, etc., to stimulate their curiosity and challenge their thinking in math.
Use feedback, hints, scaffolding, etc., to help them overcome difficulties and learn from their mistakes in math.

The MathSkills4Kids Ultimate Collection of Free Printable Math Worksheets for 2nd Grade: Practice makes perfect with these fun and challenging exercises

Another great way to help your second grader learn math is to use printable math worksheets. Printable math worksheets can provide your second grader with the following:

A structured and systematic way to practice and review math skills
A flexible and convenient way to learn math at their own time and pace
A tangible and concrete way to show their work and progress in math
A cost-effective and eco-friendly way to save paper and ink

However, not all printable math worksheets are created equal. Some printable math worksheets may be too easy or hard for your second grader; some may have too many or too few problems; some may have errors, typos, etc.

To help you find the best printable math worksheets with fun and challenging exercises for your second grader , we have created the MathSkills4Kids Ultimate Collection of Free Printable Math Worksheets for Second Grade . This collection includes:

Over 1000 free printable math worksheets for Second Grade that cover topics such as addition and subtraction within 1000 , place value up to 1000 , measurement and data , geometry , etc.
High-quality and professionally designed math worksheets that are aligned with the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics
Fun and challenging math worksheets include word problems , puzzles, riddles , coloring pages , etc.
Easy-to-use and printer-friendly math worksheets that include answer keys, instructions, and tips

First Grade Worksheets Samples:

Adding numbers using pictures with sums to or less than 20 worksheet

How to assess your second grader's math skills: A simple and practical guide for parents and teachers

One of the most important things you can do to help your second grader learn math is to assess their math skills. Assessing your second grader's math skills can help you:

Identify their strengths and weaknesses in math
Monitor their progress and growth in math
Please provide them with appropriate support and guidance in math
Set realistic and achievable goals for them in math

However, assessing your second grader's math skills can be challenging. You may need to learn what to look for, how to measure it, how to interpret it, how to communicate it, etc. To help you with this task, we have created a simple and practical guide for parents and teachers on assessing your second grader's math skills . This guide includes the following:

A list of key math skills that your second grader should know by the end of second Grade
A set of simple and practical assessment tools that you can use to check your second grader's mastery of these skills
A sample of a report card that you can use to record your second grader's performance in these skills
A sample of a parent-teacher conference that you can use to discuss your second grader's results in these skills

Bonus: Some for activities, games, and resources ideas for extra practice

In addition to the curated list of fun and educational websites and online games for your second graders above, they can still have extra practice using the following free math worksheets, games, and resources .

Try playing "Race to 100" or "Roll and Solve" to make learning math more exciting.

Try using worksheets that incorporate real-life scenarios, such as grocery shopping or telling time on a clock. You can also use interactive online games to reinforce these skills.

Your second grader will become a pro at telling time and counting money with practice!

Try using shape scavenger hunts, where students search for shapes in their environment and then classify them based on their attributes. You can also use pattern block puzzles to help students understand the properties of different shapes.

And don't forget about tangrams – these ancient Chinese puzzles are a great way to teach spatial reasoning and geometry skills.

Try playing "Measure the Room," where students use non-standard units (like paper clips or pencils) to measure different objects in the classroom. You can also play "Estimation Jar," where students estimate the number of objects in a jar and then count them to see how close their estimate was.

And remember to use rulers and measuring tapes to measure objects around the classroom or at home!

From word problems to logic puzzles, these worksheets will challenge and motivate your second grader to think critically and creatively. Plus, they can be used at home or in the classroom to supplement your math curriculum.

Before concluding, this article has given you some helpful information and resources on how to help your second grader learn math.

Hence, using these engaging and accessible online math activities, games, and worksheets from MathSkills4Kids, you can make math fun and easy for your second grader. You can also use our simple and practical guide on how to assess your second grader's math skills to ensure that they are on track with their math learning .

Additing 2-digit numbers

Mastering addition with 2-Digit worksheets for 2nd Grade PDF

Subtracting within 2-digits

Free printable subtract within 2-Digits worksheets for 2nd Grade

3-digit addition

Subtract within 3-digit numbers

Mastering 3-digit subtraction with printable worksheets for 2nd Grade math

Properties of addition & subtaction

2nd Grade Addition and Subtraction: Key Terms and Facts Every Student Should Know

Mixed operations

Place-value

Estimating and rounding

Printable estimation and rounding worksheets for 2nd Grade math practice

Logical reasoning

Telling Time

Data and graphing

Units of measurement

2nd Grade units measurement worksheets: Printable and free

Geometric measurement

Probability

Multiplication

We hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful. Try them out today, and don’t forget to CLICK THE SHARE BUTTON to allow others to benefit from this content!

Start practice on Second Grade here

The best free online math games for second grade: a curated list of fun and educational websites.

Not all online math games are created equal. Some online math games may be too easy or hard for your second grader; some may have too many ads or distractions; some may need better quality or design, etc. To help you find the best online math games for your 2 nd grader, we have curated a list of fun and educational websites that offer the best free online math games for Second Grade .

Before taking a look at these math games, we want to assure you that these games will provide your second grader with the following:

A variety of math topics and skills to practice and review
A personalized and adaptive learning experience that matches their level and pace
A gamified and interactive learning environment that keeps them entertained and motivated
A safe and secure online platform that protects their privacy and data

Below is a list of educational websites with fun math games for your 2 nd graders:

These games are colorful, funny, and challenging, providing feedback, hints, and explanations. 2nd Grade Math | Free, Online Math Games | Math Playground

These games are cute, creative, and engaging, and they also provide voice instructions, sound effects, and animations. Second Grade Learning Games, Ages 7 - 8 • ABCya!

These games are fun, quirky, and addictive, providing levels, scores, and badges. 2nd Grade Books, Games & Videos Online | Funbrain - Funbrain

These games are interactive, adaptive, and personalized, providing feedback, reports, and rewards. 2nd Grade - Online Educational Resources for 2nd Graders Kids (splashlearn.com)

Remember, learning math is important not only for your second grader's academic success but also for their personal development and future opportunities. So don't wait any longer. Start helping your second grader learn math today!

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2nd Grade Math Games

Play select games from the ST Math second grade curriculum. Concepts include place value, number line, comparing numbers, and more.

Place Value Petals

Use a visual base ten model to represent 3-digit numbers with hundreds (bouquets), tens (flowers), and ones (petals).
Apply the idea that a set of 10-ones or tens makes 1 set of the next higher unit.
Levels begin by matching the visual model to base-10 numbers (1, 10, 100), then progress to modeling 3-digit numbers with visuals.

Number Line to 100

Develop estimation strategies for finding numbers to 100 using benchmarks.
Levels begin with number lines to 20, then progress to number lines to 100 with 0, 50, and 100 as benchmarks.
Feedback allows students to revise their estimates based on initial responses.

Two-Step Problem Solving

Develop strategies for solving multi-step problems using addition and subtraction.
Find the exact number of pies that the ‘Pie Monsters’ need by adding or subtracting from the given pies on the table.
Levels begin by feeding 1 monster visual pies, then move to feeding 2 monsters with numbers representing pies.

Measuring Length

Understand length as distance measured by iterating units without gaps or overlaps.
Levels begin with non-standard, visual objects placed side-by-side, then progress to using rulers to measure distance.

Unknowns in Addition and Subtraction Situations

Fill in the missing number to make an equation true using a visual model for adding or subtracting one- and two-digit numbers.
Levels begin with finding sums or differences, then move to finding missing addends or subtrahends.
Equations are posed with operation on either side of the equal sign: 24-3= 21 and 21=24-3.

More Than, Less Than Comparing

Develop the concept and language for comparing two whole numbers by finding the difference as ’more than’ or ‘less than’.
Levels begin with visual models with differences of 2 to 4 blocks, then advance to comparing whole numbers: e.g, ‘3 is 2 less than 5’.
Feedback allows students to understand the language and concept of comparing as addition or subtraction.

Count Objects to 10

Develop counting strategies such as 1:1 correspondence and cardinality.
Levels begin by just clicking on given objects, then progress to selecting equivalent number of squares in the ground.
As the levels transition, students internalize strategies and connect numerals to the counting sequence.

Push Box Addition

Add blocks at the start (left side) to the blocks in the middle by selecting the total number of blocks at the end (right side).
Develop and apply strategies for solving visual addition problems.
Levels start with sums ≤ 5 by adding up to 2 more blocks and transition to sums up to 10.

Second Grade Math Resources

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2 Grade 2 Worksheets

Page No. 1050

Free Math Games > 2nd Grade Math

Free Online Math Games for Grade 2

Play free math games for grade 2 online. Learn addition, subtraction, multiplication and much more. All these free online math games for 2nd grade contain also at least three maths worksheets on which kids can practice a certain task. Enjoy our interactive 2nd grade math games.

Do you need homework for your students? Skip to printable math games for grade 2 .

Addition pyramids

Number pyramid puzzle game teaches the addition up to 100. Play free math learning games for 2nd graders. Play now

$free math games for 2nd grade. Free 2nd grade learning games.$

Addition and subtraction up to 100

Play addition and subtraction within 100 games. Download printable worksheets with answers in PDF. Play now

2nd grade math games online free. free math learning games for 2nd graders.

Multiplication dice games

Roll 2 dice, multiply these numbers, check your answer. Play multiplication games with a dice. Play now

Division with pictures

Introduce 2nd grade math students to the concept of division. Simple division problems using pictures. Play now

Free online math games for grade 2. free 2nd grade math games free. math games for 2nd graders.

Multiplication puzzles

Learn multiplication easily with this online math game for grade 2. After completing all 6 multiplication tasks, a nice picture will be revealed. Play now

$grade 2 problem solving activities$

Math Christmas tree game

Enjoy Christmas time and play addition Christmas tree games online. Christmas tree math game teaches add and subtract within 100. Download Christmas tree worksheets. Play now

Free 2nd grade math games. Free online math games for 2nd grade. educational games for second graders. math games for grade 2 online

2 digit addition games

Learn two digit addition with or without regrouping. Move the digits on the left side into the correct boxes. Play now

Multiplication pyramid game

Play multiplication pyramid game online, check results, find mistakes. Download multiplication pyramids worksheet. Play now

Free math games for 2nd graders. Math for grade 2 games.

Division puzzles

Math division puzzles are a great method how children learn division in a fun way. As kids complete the division tasks, they gradually uncover pictures of animals. Play now

Magic squares puzzles

Play magic squares games, learn add and subtract within 100. Download magic squares worksheets. Play now

2nd grade math games online free

Playing math games is fun! Here are some free math games for grade 2 that help us with math learning. These 2nd grade math games can be played online or they can by printed out and used in the classroom.

$math games for grade 2 free: Addition to 30: worksheets and games$

Addition to 30

Addition exercises for the second grade. Count up to 30. Check result, play again. Download worksheets.

Single digit multiplication

Practice single digit multiplication online. More than 81 exercises available. Download worksheets.

Multiplication flash cards

Online multiplication flash cards 0-12. Printable multiplication cards in PDF included.

$online math games for grade 2: Subtraction within 100: worksheets and games$

2 digit subtraction

Practice subtraction within 100 with our colored worksheets, play online games with or without regrouping.

$free 2nd grade learning games: Online math crossword puzzles with answers$

Number crossword puzzle

Number crossword puzzles online. Fill in the missing numbers so the operations are correct. Download math crossword puzzles in PDF.

Online math games for 2nd grade: Subtraction pyramid puzzle

Subtraction pyramids

Subtraction for the second grade. Play subtraction pyramid puzzle game. Check result, play again.

Multiplication BINGO

Play multiplication BINGO game online. Get 5 stars in row, column or diagonally.

math problems for 2nd graders. 2nd grade games. free 2nd grade math games. free math games for grade 2 free download.

Multiplication arrays

What problem does this multiplication array represent?

Multiplication chart

Interactive multiplication chart games + printables.

Free 2nd grade math games online. grade 2 online learning free

3D shapes games online

Play free 3D shapes games online. Match the shape to the correct name.

Multiplication crossword

Play free 2nd grade math games online: solve multiplication crossword puzzles. Print out worksheets.

Division BINGO game

Play division BINGO game. Download free printable math BINGO cards in PDF.

Numbers before and after

Find the number what comes before, after or between: 1 to 100. Play online. Download worksheets.

Multiplication comparisons

Compare numbers of the multicplication. This math game improves multiplication and comparison skills.

Free math games for 2nd grade: What number comes after: 1 to 50

What comes after: 1 to 50

Write the number what comes after: 1 to 50. Play online. Download worksheets.

Matchstick puzzles

Move one match to fix the equation. A new matchstick puzzle every day.

Printable math games for grade 2 FREE download

Download free printable second grade math games in PDF. Most of the worksheets have two pages, the first one is the worksheet and the other one contains also the answers. You can download more worksheets in individual games or browse all our free printable math worksheets for grade 2 in PDF here .

Online Math Games for 2nd Grade

Our free math games for Grade 2 teach kids addition, subtraction, shapes recognition and multiplication.

Kids will immediately see the correct answer, they can learn from their mistakes.

These math games and puzzles are full of nice pictures, so kids will have fun.

2nd Grade Math Online

Learning Math is about practicing and repeating. Play following games to practice what you should already know in the Second Grade:

$2 grade math games: Addition to 20$

Addition up to 20

Addition exercises for the first class. Count up to 20. Check result, play again. Download worksheets. Play now

$2nd grade math games free: Subtraction to 20$

Subtraction within 20

Subtraction to 20. Almost 400 exercises available. Download worksheets. Play now

Need more exercises? Check other online math games for grade 1 .

$Free Printable Math Games for Grade 2$

Free Math Worksheets

Download the collection of our best math worksheets for Grade 1-5.

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20 Word Problems For 2nd Grade: Develop Their Problem Solving Skills Across Single and Mixed Topics

Emma Johnson

Word problems for second grade are an important tool for improving number fluency. The key focus of math in second grade is on ensuring students are becoming more fluent with number facts and the concept of place value. Children are starting to develop more efficient written methods by this stage and are beginning to carry out calculations with increasingly larger whole numbers.

As children progress through school, they are exposed to a wider variety of problem solving questions covering a range of concepts. In second grade, these include addition, subtraction, measurement and data.

It is important that children are regularly exposed to reasoning and problem solving questions, alongside the fluency work each lesson. It is also important to remember that all children need exposure to reasoning and problem solving questions, not just the higher attaining students who finish quickest.

We have put together a collection of 20 word problems, aimed at second grade students.

Word Problems Grade 2 Addition and Subtraction

11 grade 2 addition and subtraction questions to develop reasoning and problem solving skills.

Place value

Addition and subtraction, measurement, data representation, why are word problems important in second grade math, benefits of pairs, groups and class discussion , addition question 1, addition question 2, addition question 3, subtraction question 1, subtraction question 2, subtraction question 3, multi-step question 1, multi-step question 2, multi-step question 3, more word problems resources, second grade math word problems.

In second grade, students focus on one-step problems, covering a range of topics. At this stage the majority of word problems students are tackling will have one-step, but they may also start to be introduced to simple two-step word problems. Here is a breakdown of topics that will be covered and expectations in second grade.

Solve number problems and practical problems involving recognizing the place value of each digit of a 3-digit number; comparing and ordering numbers up to 1,000 and identifying, representing and estimating numbers using different representations.

Solve problems, including missing number problems, using number facts, place value and more complex addition and subtraction word problems .

Solve problems involving length; adding and subtracting within money word problems involving dollar bills, quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies.

Solve-step and two-step questions (For example, ‘How many more?’ and ‘How many fewer’?) using information presented in scaled bar charts, pictograms and tables.

By second grade, children are starting to learn how to use some of the formal written methods of addition and subtraction. It is important that the link between math in school and math in real-life continues to be made. Word problems are a key element in helping students to make this link.

How to teach problem solving in second grade

When teaching math problems to second grade, it’s important to think of ways to make them fun, engaging and something the children are able to relate to. This might include acting out the problem, using concrete resources and providing visual images, to bring the problems to life.

Children should have plenty of opportunity to talk in pairs, groups and as a whole class, to share their understanding of what is being asked and their math strategies for problem solving . The use of manipulatives is important and all children should have access to a range of math resources when solving problems like this.

Students need to be encouraged to read word problems carefully and to make sure they understand what is being asked, before attempting to tackle the problem. This is where the use of a partner and group discussion can really help children’s understanding. Students then need to think about what they already know and how they can use this to help them answer the question. Where appropriate, students should also be encouraged to draw diagrams and pictures to help them solve the question.

Here is an example:

Mason has 24 glass jars to put flowers in.

He gives 5 to Marcy and drops 2 while carrying them inside the shop.

How many glass jars does Mason have left?

How to solve:

What do you already know?

Mason has a total of 24 glass jars.
We know he gives Marcy 5 jars, which means we will need to subtract 5 from 4.
He also dropped 2, also meaning we will need to subtract.
In second grade, children should be building confidence with adding and subtracting within 20, and should be able to do these calculations in their heads.
Children who aren’t able to recall quickly could use counters to represent the jars, or draw a bar model to help solve it.

How can this be drawn/represented visually?

We can draw a bar model or counters to represent this problem:

visual representation of question regarding jars

To calculate how many jars are left, we can either use or draw 24 counters. We can then remove or cross out the 5 jars given to Marcy, and then 2 jars that were broken.
Using the bar model, we can first subtract 5 from 24, representing the jars given to Marcy, leaving 19 jars. Then subtract 2 more from 19, to represent the two jars broken.
Mason had 17 glass jars left.

Addition word problems for second grade

In second grade, students are exposed to a range of addition word problems, including problems involving mental addition and addition of up to 3-digits using formal written methods.

Subtraction word problems for second grade

Subtraction word problems in second grade also need to comprise of a combination of mental calculation questions and those involving formal written subtraction up to 3-digits. Children should also be starting to estimate answers and check their calculations by using the inverse.

Ahmed collects 374 stickers.

He needs 526 stickers to fill his sticker album.

How many more stickers does he need to collect?

Answer : 152 stickers

526 – 374 = 152

A bag of carrots weigh 360g

A bag of tomatoes weighs 235g.

How much heavier is the bag of carrots?

Answer : 125g

360 – 235 = 125

Ahmed buys a bag of candy with 200 pieces in it.

Over 2 weeks, he eats 145 pieces. How many pieces of candy does Ahmed have left?

Answer : 55 pieces of candy

200 – 145 or count up from 145 to 200.

Multi-step word problems in second grade

When children first move into elementary school, word problems are predominantly one-step. As they become more confident they can be exposed to more word problems, requiring a second step or multi-step word problems. When first introducing two-step problems, keep the numbers used in the problems low and manageable to allow students to focus on reasoning over calculations.

Oliver had 3 bags of candies.

Each bag contained 15 candies.

Oliver’s little brother ate 17 pieces of the candy. How many pieces of candy does Oliver have left?

Answer : 9 sweets

15 + 15 + 15 = 45

45 – 17 = 28

A teacher photocopies 95 math worksheets and 80 English worksheets in one week.

Teachers can print a maximum of 300 worksheets per week.

How many can the teacher print for other subjects?

Answer : 125 worksheets

95 + 80 = 175

300 – 175 = 125

A flower shop picks 19 roses and 25 daisies fresh from their garden.

A customer orders a dozen flowers for a birthday gift.

How many flowers will the flower shop have left?

Answer : 32 flowers

19 + 25 = 44 flowers (roses and daisies combined)

44 – 12 = 32 flowers

We hope that this collection of word problems for second grade becomes a useful resource in your second grade math classroom.

For more resources, take a look at our library. Third Space Learning offers a wide array of math and word problems resources for other grades. These include worksheets , end of year assessments and a range of math games and activities for students from kindergarten through to 6th grade.

Do you have students who need extra support in math? Give your students more opportunities to consolidate learning and practice skills through personalized math tutoring with their own dedicated online math tutor. Each student receives differentiated instruction designed to close their individual learning gaps, and scaffolded learning ensures every student learns at the right pace. Lessons are aligned with your state’s standards and assessments, plus you’ll receive regular reports every step of the way. Personalized one-on-one math tutoring programs are available for: – 2nd grade tutoring – 3rd grade tutoring – 4th grade tutoring – 5th grade tutoring – 6th grade tutoring – 7th grade tutoring – 8th grade tutoring Why not learn more about how it works ?

The content in this article was originally written by former Deputy Headteacher Emma Johnson and has since been revised and adapted for US schools by elementary math teacher Christi Kulesza.

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Home » Teacher & Parents Tips » Math Made Easy: Helping Grade 2 Students Thrive in Problem Solving

Math Made Easy: Helping Grade 2 Students Thrive in Problem Solving

Mathematics is an essential subject that students cannot afford to neglect. As early as grade 2, students are introduced to the basics of mathematical concepts such as numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. An essential aspect of mathematics is problem-solving. While many students find it challenging, it can be made easy with the right approach. This article will discuss how parents and educators can turn problem-solving woes into victories and equip their grade 2 students with the skills needed to excel in math.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Problem Solving in Grade 2 Math

Problem-solving is an essential skill that students need to master to excel in math. It involves critical thinking, analysis, and decision-making. It also helps students develop their reasoning abilities and enables them to apply logic in real-life situations. In grade 2 math, problem-solving skills are essential as they help students understand mathematical concepts better. Students who can solve problems are more confident and enjoy math more than those who struggle.

Turning Problem-Solving Woes into Victories

Many students, especially in grade 2, find problem-solving challenging. However, with the right approach, it can be turned into a victory. One way to turn problem-solving woes into victories is by breaking down the problem into smaller parts. Encourage your child to read the problem carefully and identify the key elements. Once they have identified these elements, they can begin to solve the problem step by step. This approach helps students understand the problem better and reduces anxiety.

Another way to turn problem-solving woes into victories is by practicing regularly. The more students practice, the more comfortable they become with problem-solving. Encourage your child to practice regularly and provide them with different types of problems to solve. As they solve more problems, their confidence will increase, and they will become more efficient problem-solvers.

Strategies for Effective Problem Solving in Math

There are several strategies that students can use to solve problems effectively. One of the most effective strategies is the use of visual aids. Encourage your child to draw diagrams or pictures to help them understand the problem better. This approach helps students visualize the problem and enables them to make better decisions.

Another strategy is to use real-life situations to solve problems. This approach helps students understand how math can be applied in real-life situations. For example, if you want to teach your child about fractions, you can use pizza slices to help them understand the concept better.

Lastly, encourage your child to work with a partner or in a group. Group work helps students learn from one another and can be an effective way to solve problems. It also helps students develop their social skills and enables them to work collaboratively.

Fun and Engaging Math Activities for Grade 2 Students

Learning math can be fun and engaging. There are several math activities that parents and educators can use to help grade 2 students develop their problem-solving skills. One such activity is math games. Games such as Sudoku, Math Bingo, and Math Jeopardy can be used to teach students math concepts while making learning fun.

Another activity is math puzzles. Puzzles such as crosswords, word searches, and logic puzzles can be used to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, math stories can be used to teach math concepts while making learning fun. Math stories can be found in storybooks or online, and they provide an interactive way to teach math concepts.

Developing Critical Thinking Skills through Math

Mathematics is an excellent way to develop critical thinking skills. Critical thinking involves analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating information to make informed decisions. In math, critical thinking is essential as it helps students understand mathematical concepts and apply them in real-life situations.

Encourage your child to think critically when solving problems. Teach them to ask questions and to consider different solutions to a problem. Additionally, encourage them to explain their reasoning and to justify their solutions. These skills are essential in problem-solving and can be applied in other areas of their lives.

Providing Support and Encouragement for your Child

Providing support and encouragement is essential when helping your grade 2 child excel in math. Encourage your child to ask questions and to seek help when they need it. Additionally, provide them with a positive learning environment and praise their efforts and progress. Celebrate their successes and encourage them to keep learning and practicing.

Equipping Your Child for Math Success in Grade 2

Mathematics is an essential subject that requires problem-solving skills. By turning problem-solving woes into victories, providing support and encouragement, and using effective strategies and fun activities, parents and educators can help grade 2 students excel in math. With the right approach, learning math can be fun and engaging while developing critical thinking skills that are essential in all areas of life.

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2nd Grade Fast Math Success Workbook: Math Worksheets Grade 2: Numeration, Addition, Subtraction, Telling Time and More with Answers

Comparing Numbers Within 200
Ordering Numbers Within 200
Skip Counting: Count By 1s and 2s
Place Value: Ones, Tens, and Hundreds
Addition: 1 through 100
Subtraction: 1 through 100
Addition: Missing Number – 1 through 100
Subtraction: Missing Number – 1 through 100
Ordering Numbers – 1 through 1000
Comparing Numbers – 1 through 1000
Counting: Count by 4 to 6
Addition and Subtraction: Double Digit
Addition and Subtraction: Missing Number – Double Digit
Addition: Triple Addend – 1 through 100
Mixed Operations: 1 through 100
Write the Numbers Before, After, and Between
Addition and Subtraction: 1 through 1000
Telling Time
Time Passages
Addition and Subtraction Games
Final Review

MathBear: Math Workbook Grade 2

MathBear: Math Workbook Grade 2: 2nd Grade Math Workbook: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Numeration with Answers

Math Practice Workbook Grade 2

Math Practice Workbook Grade 2: 3051 Questions to Master Essential Math Skills (Numeration, Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Telling Time and More) With Answer Key

Circle the Numbers
Comparing Numbers
Addition: Double Digit
Subtraction: Double Digit
Addition: Missing Number
Subtraction: Missing Number
Number Before, After and Between
Addition: Triple Digit
Subtraction: Triple Digit
Basic Multiplication

MathBear: Homeschool Math Workbook Grade 2

MathBear: Homeschool Math Workbook Grade 2: 2nd Grade Homeschool Math Practice Workbook: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Place Value with Answers

Place Value
Commutative Property
Addition Games
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MathBear: Math Curriculum Workbook Grade 2

MathBear: Math Curriculum Workbook Grade 2: 2nd Grade Math Curriculum: Numeration, Place Value, Addition and Subtraction, Telling Time with Answers

Ordering Numbers
Number Before, After, or Between
Number Lines
Place Value: Ones, Tens, Hundreds
Subtraction
Addition: 3 Addend
Introduction to Multiplication
Measure the Rectangles
Match the Answers

MathBear: Math Practice Grade 2

MathBear: Math Practice Grade 2: 2nd Grade Math Practice Workbook: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Place Value, Telling Time, Commutative Property with Answers

MathBear: Math Skills Workbook Grade 2

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Kids Math Book Ages 6-8: Math Practice workbook Grade 1-3: Addition, Subtraction, Place Value, Telling Time

Addition Target
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Addition Square
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Addition Table
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Addition: Triple Addend
Numbers Before, After, and Between
What time was and will it be?

Math Workbook Grade 2: Addition and Subtraction

MathBear: Math Workbook Grade 2: Addition and Subtraction: 2nd Grade Double Digit Addition and Subtraction Workbook with Answers

Addition: within 100
Subtraction: within 100
Basic Addition with Regrouping
Basic Subtraction with Regrouping

2nd Grade Division Worksheets Division as Grouping

Welcome to our 2nd Grade Division Worksheets. Here you will find our selection of free division worksheets to help your child learn all about division and how it works using groups.

Division is introduced as a concept around Grade 2.

Unlike addition and subtracting, multiplication and division are concepts that do not come naturally to many children. Quite a lot of time may need to be dedicated in developing children's understanding of what division is and how it works. Time spent doing this is time well spent, so that children become more confident with their understanding of division before they continue their journey into learning division facts.

Solving division problems that can be acted out and physically shared out is also a very good way to understand division and what it is all about.

The division learning in 2nd Grade underpins future learning of the division facts, and the standard long division algorithm learnt in future grades.

During 2nd grade, children should be learning the following division skills:

understand what division is and how it works;
solve simple division problems with a context.

2nd Grade Division

Having a solid foundation of what division is and how it works is the most important thing to teach children in 2nd grade.

There are also different ways of looking at division such as:

division as grouping - how many groups of ... make ...
division as sharing - what is ... shared between ...
division as repeated subtraction
division as the inverse of multiplication

The following sheets are all about division as grouping.

The sheets are all about dividing a set of objects into groups of a fixed number.

Dividing into groups of ...

Example 1: 8 ÷ 4 = 2

The above example shows 8 trees divided (or planted) into groups of 4. There are two groups of trees, so 8 ÷ 4 = 2.

This gives us the sentence: 8 trees divided into groups of four makes 2 groups of trees.

This gives us the calculation: 8 ÷ 4 = 2

Example 2: 9 ÷ 3 = 3

The above example shows 9 fish divided (or swimming) into groups of 3.

This gives us the sentence: 9 fish divided into groups of three makes 3 groups of fish.

This gives us the calculation: 9 ÷ 3 = 3

2nd Grade Division Worksheets

The following worksheets are all about learning to understand how divide a set of objects into groups of different amounts.

These sheets will give your child a good grounding in basic division, and will help give them a picture in their heads of what it is all about.

An answer sheet is available for each worksheet provided.

Using the sheets in this section will help your child to:

understand how division into groups works;
divide a set of objects into groups the same size.
Division Problems Sheet 2.1
PDF version
Division Problems Sheet 2.2
Division Problems Sheet 2.3
Division Problems Sheet 2.4
Division Problems Sheet 2.5
Division Problems Sheet 2.6

Looking for more worksheets like these?

Take a look at our How to do Division Worksheets.

The sheets on this page will help your child learn to do:

division as sharing;
division as grouping;
division using arrays;
learn the language of division and how to name the parts of a division sentence
How to do Division Worksheets

Other Recommended Worksheets

Here are some of our other related worksheets you might want to look at.

Using Multiplication Worksheets

The following webpage involve understanding multiplication both as repeated addition and also using arrays.

The sheets in this section are more challenging than the array sheets, as they are not based around visual models for support.

understand multiplication as repeated addition;
understand multiplication using arrays;
convert a repeated addition to a multiplication calculation.

All the sheets in this section will help your child to develop his or her multiplication understanding.

Beginning Multiplication Worksheets using Arrays
How to teach Multiplication using Repeated Addition

Division Facts Worksheet Generator

Here is our free generator for division facts.

This easy-to-use generator will create randomly generated division worksheets for you to use.

Each sheet comes complete with answers if required.

The areas the generator covers includes:

Dividing with numbers to 5x5;
Dividing with a single times table;
Practicing division with selected times tables;

These free printable math worksheets can be used in a number of ways to help your child with their division table learning.

Division Worksheets (randomly generated)

Return to Division Worksheets Hub Page

Return from 2nd Grade Division Worksheets Page to Homepage

How to Print or Save these sheets

Need help with printing or saving? Follow these 3 easy steps to get your worksheets printed out perfectly!

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Whether you are looking for a free Homeschool Math Worksheet collection, banks of useful Math resources for teaching kids, or simply wanting to improve your child's Math learning at home, there is something here at the Math Salamanders for you!

The Math Salamanders hope you enjoy using these free printable Math worksheets and all our other Math games and resources.

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Grading Guide

Here is the grading guide for our worksheets.

White: the easiest level for children at their early stages in 2nd grade.

Orange: medium level of difficulty for children who are working at the expected level in 2nd grade.

Purple: this is the hardest level for children who need that extra challenge.

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15 Best Problem Solving Activities: Foster Critical Thinking

1. Rolling Dice

2. build a tower, 3. tic tac toe, 4. scavenger hunt, 6. activity books, 7. board games, 9. human knot, 10. open-ended questions.

Problem solving activities for kids are a great way to teach them how to think critically and creatively, and how to develop a growth mindset . We’re sure you must have also played many educational games as a kid that helped you develop critical thinking or problem-solving- skills you’re using even today. These activities can be tailored to be fun and engaging, and they help kids understand that challenges and difficulties are opportunities to learn and grow instead of things to be feared.

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By providing kids with problem-solving activities, we can give them the tools to develop their problem-solving skills and build the confidence to tackle difficult challenges, which will be valuable to them throughout their life. It will also help them understand that their abilities can be developed with practice and hard work, encouraging them to persevere through difficult tasks and not give up easily when faced with obstacles. If you’re looking for some fun and engaging problem solving activities for children to develop a growth mindset, we have curated a list of activities for you.

15 Best Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Things you’ll need: A die or dice, some flashcards and a pen

How to do: You can play tons of different games with dice. Playing with two dice encourages kids to quickly add up numbers and learn math in a fun way . One fun game you can play with a single die involves flashcards. For this game, you can assign a category to each number on the die and when the kid rolls the die, they have to name any 3 examples from the category assigned to the number rolled. For example, if number 4 is assigned to animals and it is rolled, they will have to name any 3 animals.

Things you’ll need: Building blocks, lego, toilet rolls or anything that can be stacked

How to do: If you’re looking for problem solving activities for 5 year olds, this is for you. To play this game, just give the kids anything that can be stacked on top of the other. This can be building blocks, lego, Jenga blocks, toilet rolls, etc. The challenge is to stack one on top of the other and see how high a tower they can build. This game can be played in teams or individually as well.

Things you’ll need: A tic tac tow board or pen and paper

How to do: This is one of the most exciting problem solving fun activities for students. You can either play this game on a tic tac toe board or on paper. If you’re playing it on paper, draw a table so that you have 9 boxes. Now each player must choose X or O and try to make a continuous row of their chosen symbol. Whoever succeeds wins.

Things you’ll need: Small toys, stationery items, or anything you want to include in a scavenger hunt

How to do: Assign the teams or individual players specific items they have to find in a defined area. This can be an indoor or outdoor activity for kids . Give them a list of the things they need to find, and you can also give them hints on where to find these things. Whoever or whichever team finds all the things first wins.

Things you’ll need: A puzzle game

How to do: Get a puzzle set. This can be a regular cardboard puzzle or a wooden puzzle and ask the players or teams to arrange it. You can make this a timed challenge or just let the kids solve the puzzle in their own time and have fun.

Things you’ll need: Activity books and pencils

How to do: This is one of the best problem solving activities for kids. Activity books are great for children’s problem-solving skills to develop. Buy them activity books containing games like find the element, what’s wrong with the pictures, or hidden picture books.

Things you’ll need: Board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, and Go Fish

How to do: Give them board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, Go Fish, etc. These board games help kids to develop logic, think deeper, plan ahead and solve problems.

Things you’ll need: A chalk

How to do: Build a maze with chalk on the sidewalk. Make sure you add a few dead-end ways to make it more challenging for the kids. Once the kid is able to walk through and come out of the maze, take the game to the next level by adding even more dead-end ways and see how they overcome the challenge.

Things you’ll need: Just a playground or garden

How to do: This is a great group activity for kids that’ll also teach them lots of skills. Ask the kids to form a circle and raise their right arm up. Now ask them to reach out to someone standing opposite to them in the circle and hold their left hand with their left hand. Now ask them to raise their left hands up and repeat the process with their right hands. The objective is to entangle them completely and then ask them to detangle themselves without letting go of anyone’s hands.

Things you’ll need: Pen and paper

How to do: Once you’re done with an activity, ask kids open-ended questions. These are questions that have no right or wrong answers. Some examples of such questions are- “Did you find this activity easy?”, “What did you enjoy the most about this activity?”, “How would you make this activity more fun?”, etc.

11. Wool Web

Things you’ll need: Balls of yarn

How to do: This is one of the most exciting group problem solving classroom activities for kids . Divide the players into equal teams and ask them to form a circle. Hand them over one ball of yarn each and ask them to make a web of it amongst the teams. Set a time limit for this step, and once it is done, switch the webs so that none of the teams has their own webs. Now the teams will decide on one player from each team to be blindfolded. This blindfolded player will have to untangle to web assigned to their team with the help of verbal instructions from their teams. The team that untangles the web first wins.

12. Fingertip Hula Hoop

Things you’ll need: Hula hoops

How to do: Divide the kids into teams of 6-8 for this game. Each team will stand in a circle and then be asked to raise their hands up. Now, place a hula hoop on top of their fingertips and ask them to bring it down slowly and make it touch the ground without it falling down or leaving the fingertips. The team to finish the task first wins.

13. Obstacle Course

Things you’ll need: Pillows, blankets, mattresses, cones, balls, chairs, etc.

How to do: Build an obstacle course indoors or outdoors with whatever you can find. This makes for one of the most engaging problem solving games for kids. Ask your kids to cross the obstacle course as fast as they can. To make it a bit more challenging, you can also ask them to race against each other to cross the obstacle course.

14. Memory Games

Things you’ll need: Playing cards

How to do: For this fun cards game, place all the cards face down and take turns to turn 2-4 cards. If you are able to open two similar cards (in number), you get to keep the pair. The player with the highest number of cards with them in the end wins.

15. Impromptu Plays

Things you’ll need: A stage

How to do: This is one of the best problem-solving exercises for kids to play in groups. If you have a large group, divide the kids into teams of 6-8. If the group is smaller, just make the kids stand individually. Now make a few chits on a theme that has questions that form a difficult situation or a challenge. For example, you can put in chits with questions like “You just found your friend cheating in an exam. What do you tell them?” or “Your younger sibling just broke your favorite toy. How do you react?”. Each team must enact a scene that includes the situation their chit has. If the group isn’t that big, each kid must speak about the same chit but have different perspectives.

Why Are Problem Solving Skills Important for Kids?

Developing problem solving skills is extremely important for kids as it helps them to navigate easily around difficulties later on in life. As adults, we’re faced with challenging situations every day, and without our basic problem-solving skills, we wouldn’t be able to survive.

Problem solving skills also help kids to make effective decisions. It helps them resolve problems all at once without reducing them to smaller problems. Once kids develop problem solving skills, it is easier for them to develop other skills as well like critical thinking, cooperation and collaboration with others.

Having problem solving skills helps kids to become more creative and think differently than others and enables them to become independent. These skills also help kids develop decision-making skills and build their confidence along the way as they take the right decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the 5 problem solving skills.

The five problem solving skills are identifying the problem, producing possible results that might work, picking one solution from these, applying the chosen solution and evaluating the results.

What are some examples of problem-solving skills in kids?

Some of the problem solving skills in kids are research, creativity, team-building, communication, active listening, decision-making, and analysis. If you find some of these skills in a kid, chances are they’re great at problem solving.

What is problem solving learning?

According to cornell.edu, Problem solving learning is an approach wherein students are asked open-ended questions about a certain topic, and they must resolve and answer the same in groups.

At what age do children begin problem-solving?

According to a study by Shaffer , kids can start developing basic problem solving skills from the age of three. This further continues to develop as they grow.

What are three problem-solving techniques

According to deakin.edu , the three most basic problem solving techniques are defining the problem, listing out all the possible solutions, and evaluating the options.

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