IXL | Word problems involving addition and subtraction without comparisons - up to 20

There were some fish in a fish tank. Then, Deb put 8 more in. Now there are 18 fish. How many fish were in the tank at the start?

fish

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Learn with an example

question

There were some squirrels in a tree. Then, 8 squirrels climbed down. Now there are 3 squirrels in the tree. How many squirrels were there at the start?

squirrels

solution

There were some squirrels in a tree. Then, 8 squirrels climbed down. Now there are 3 squirrels in the tree. You need to find how many squirrels were there at the start. It can be helpful to draw a model.

squirrels at the start

squirrels that climbed down

squirrels now

Now, find the missing number. The model shows you can use subtraction or addition.

You can write a subtraction sentence and find the missing number.

–

Or you can use a related addition sentence.

There were 11 squirrels at the start.

Looking for more? Try this:

$Confetti$

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IXL's SmartScore is a dynamic measure of progress towards mastery, rather than a percentage grade. It tracks your skill level as you tackle progressively more difficult questions. Consistently answer questions correctly to reach excellence (90), or conquer the Challenge Zone to achieve mastery (100)! Learn more

Teacher tools

Work it out

Not feeling ready yet? These can help:

O.9Word problems involving addition and subtraction - up to 10

R.2Addition word problems - sums up to 20

U.2Subtraction word problems - up to 20

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