A mathematical or maths sum results from adding two or more numbers. It is the total of the numbers added together. For example, the sum of 3 and 7 is 10.
They are taught to kids in their Maths lessons and can appear as numerical sums or be structured as word problems.
Examples of Maths sums
Numerical sum:
7 + 3 = 10
20 + 15 = 35
120 + 57 = 177
5 + 17 + 60 = 82
Another example of a maths sum uses pictures and symbols instead of numbers. Each can represent a specific number; in this case, each fruit has the same value as 1. Sums with views are significant to use at the EYFS level to get young children interested in learning Maths. Young children can count each image to find the total.
In these examples, there are six pears and nine strawberries. This is worked out as we know each piece of fruit has a value of 1, so we can count how many there are and add them together. The numerical sums are 3+3 = 6 and 5+4= 9.
Word problem sum:
Math sums structured as word problems are suitable for kids solving real-life mathematical situations. For example, they can use money as an example that asks to find the total amount.
1- Bill has £50 and Ben has £42. What is the sum of money they have if they combine their money?
Answer = £92
2- Jerry has 15 marbles, Tom has eight, and Sally has 17. What is the sum of all their marbles?
Answer = 40 marbles
