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!











Emily McNulty –
These are fantastic! Thank you!
M B. –
My kids loved this!
Miss April Rose –
I love these. thank you for a great product!
Susan R. –
Great for lessons and centers!
anna harris –
wonderful
Meagan Tatro –
great!
Mechaela V. –
these are awesome!! LOVE using these in my math centers for early finishers! thank you!
Amanda K. –
🙂
Shelley Powell –
I love using the word problems for their math journals. Great product. Thanks
Shelby Spivey –
love
Lauren T. –
The different options and picture supports make this resource work in any classroom. Thank you!!!
Andreanna Y. –
Easy to use and always a great way to spiral.
Abby M. –
So many different things to use! Fantastic!
Cristina S. –
Great resource
Alana A. –
Thank you!
Marissa S. –
Great resource to introduce Missing Addends.