Worked Example 1
One-Step Problem
Sam had 54 stickers. He gave 18 to his sister. How many stickers does Sam have now?
- 1Sam's stickers are being taken away, so subtract.
- 254 − 18 = 36
Answer: 36 stickers
Florida Grade 2 Math · Algebraic Reasoning
MA.2.AR.1.1: Addition and Subtraction Word Problems
What this Grade 2 benchmark means, worked examples, common mistakes, and a free printable worksheet.
Created by a Florida mom · Published by Tropical Learning LLC
What Is Benchmark MA.2.AR.1.1?
Students solve one-step and two-step word problems using addition and subtraction, with sums up to 100. They also write their own story problems to match an equation.
The key is understanding the story: what is known, what is unknown, and whether the amounts are being joined, separated, or compared.
Official benchmarkSolve one- and two-step addition and subtraction real-world problems.
How it is tested: Grade 2 students take FAST Star Math, Florida's math test for Kindergarten through Grade 2.
Worked Examples
Worked Example 2
Two-Step Problem
A class read 23 books in May and 31 books in June. Their goal is 70 books. How many more books do they need to read?
- 1Step 1: find how many books they read. 23 + 31 = 54
- 2Step 2: find how many more they need. 70 − 54 = 16
Answer: 16 more books
Common Mistakes to Watch For
Adding every number in the problem
Wrong:Lena has 45 beads. She has 12 more than Kim. Kim has 45 + 12 = 57 beads.
Lena has more, so Kim has fewer: 45 − 12 = 33 beads.
Stopping after the first step
Wrong:The class needs 54 more books.
54 is how many they already read. The question asks how many more they need: 70 − 54 = 16 books.
Helpful Math Tip
Have your child retell the story in their own words before solving, then ask: "Does your answer make sense?" Acting the story out with small objects helps with compare problems.
Related Grade 2 Skills
Make Florida Math Practice More Fun
Help your child build math confidence with original interactive questions aligned with Florida's B.E.S.T. Mathematics Standards.
Start Practicing FreeIndependent Educational Platform. FastChomp is published by Tropical Learning LLC and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the Florida Department of Education. FAST and Star assessment names are referenced for informational purposes only. FastChomp practice questions are original educational materials, not official Florida FAST assessment questions.