A number sentence is an array of numbers and symbols. Also referred to as a “sum” or “problem,” number sentences are a familiar way of arranging questions in K-5 math.
Kids must learn this early, as it is how most of the work in their math lessons will look.
“Number sentence” is the term used in K-5-level math teaching in countries such as the U.S., Canada, the UK, New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia.
Here are some examples of number sentences:
Addition number sentence: 7 + 5 = 12
Subtraction number sentence: 44 – 10 = 34
Multiplication number sentence: 5 x 4 = 20
Division number sentence: 35 ÷ 7 = 5
When are number sentences introduced?
Typically, children will start learning to write and solve number sentences in first grade. They will likely begin by using objects such as counters and small toys to help them understand the value of numbers.
Children also need to be able to turn word problems into number sentences to understand the question. For example:
Steve has $10 and spends $4.50 on his lunch. How much does he have left?
The number sentence is 10 – 4.50 = 5.50
So a child can work out that Steve has $5.50 left using a number sentence.
They are essential for a child to learn early on to develop their math skills, as this is what most of the math problems they’ll be solving will look like.
Number sentences for kids
Here are ten differentiated number sentences for your children to try out. They start friendly and accessible but get harder and harder as you go on. How many can your class solve?
- 2 + ? = 4
- 3 – 2 = ?
- 4 + 1 = ?
- 6 – ? = 2
- 8 + 3 = ?
- 10 – ? = 3
- 15 + 5 = ?
- 16 -? = 8
- 18- 9 = ?
- 25 + 12 = ?
