Description
Strengthen your students’ understanding of addition and subtraction with this set of Missing Addend Word Problems—ideal for math centers, small groups, or independent practice. These task cards and math journal prompts focus on building logical reasoning and helping students analyze part-part-whole relationships, a key concept in early math instruction.
Unlike traditional word problems that ask for a total, missing addend problems require students to identify the unknown part. This format challenges them to think critically and prepares them for more complex, two-step problems they’ll encounter in later grades.
What’s Included:
- 20 missing addend word problems covering:
- Start Unknown
- Change Unknown
- Result Unknown
- 3 flexible formats:
- Task Cards (in color)
- Math Journal Prompts (black and white)
- Google Slides (digital, in color)
Use this versatile resource to support whole-group instruction, small-group work, math centers, or as independent math journal prompts. It’s a meaningful way to deepen student understanding of add and subtract concepts while encouraging real-world problem-solving.
Looking for even more word problem practice?
Check out the 1st Grade Word Problems within 20 Bundle—featuring addition, subtraction, comparison, and missing addend problems in one easy-to-use pack. It’s a perfect next step to keep students engaged and growing in their problem-solving skills.
✅ Download the preview to get a closer look at these templates and examples from my classroom!











Kelly H. –
These are great, thanks!
Give Spark –
Thank you!
Vicki W. –
This made teaching a difficult concept easier for myself and my students. Thank you!
Tammy Sivley – The Space Coast Teacher –
A great practice for this difficult concept for my first graders.
Rachael H. –
These worksheets really helped my first graders practice story problems.
Kris W. –
This is so great. My kids needed so much practice with this type of word problem and this resource was perfect.
Emily C. –
My students love it so much!
1greatteach –
So excited to use task cards this year!
Amanda L. –
I feel like kids struggle with missing addend word problems the most so these will be perfect!
Keisha B. –
Great resource. Thank you for sharing.
Kimberly M. –
Great resource for this skill!
Charlene W. –
Only one word: LOVE
Amanda Enser –
Thanks for your creative ideas!
Sara Kucera –
Great resource!
Sherry Moton –
Thanks
Judith S. –
Fun! Wish there were more!