Solving Two-Step Problems with Multiplication and Addition/Subtraction
Solving Two-Step Problems with Multiplication and Addition/Subtraction is a Grade 3 math skill from Eureka Math covering problems that require two distinct operations in sequence. Step 1 finds a subtotal by multiplying two quantities (S = a × b). Step 2 adds or subtracts an additional amount to find the final answer (F = S + c or F = S - c). For example: 3 packs of 6 stickers plus 5 extra stickers = (3 × 6) + 5 = 23. Third graders learn to identify which operation comes first and why the order matters.
Key Concepts
To solve these problems, first find a subtotal by multiplying two quantities. Then, perform a second step by either adding to or subtracting from that subtotal to find the final answer. The general structure is: Step 1: Find the subtotal: $S = a \times b$ Step 2: Find the final answer: $F = S + c$ or $F = S c$.
Common Questions
How do you solve a two-step problem with multiplication and addition?
Step 1: Multiply to find the subtotal (S = a × b). Step 2: Add or subtract the additional amount to get the final answer (F = S + c or F = S - c).
What does two-step mean in a math word problem?
Two-step means the problem requires two separate calculations. You cannot solve it in one operation—you must find an intermediate result first, then use it in a second operation.
Give an example of a two-step multiplication and addition problem.
A baker makes 4 trays of 8 cookies, then eats 3. Total = (4 × 8) - 3 = 32 - 3 = 29 cookies remaining.
Why must you multiply before adding in these problems?
The multiplication finds the subtotal (how many in all the groups). The addition or subtraction then adjusts that subtotal. Reversing the order would give a different, incorrect result.
In which textbook is Solving Two-Step Problems with Multiplication and Addition/Subtraction taught?
This skill is taught in Eureka Math, Grade 3.