Lesson Plan: Two-Step Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

Objective: Students will be able to solve two-step addition and subtraction word problems using appropriate strategies.

Materials: - Whiteboard or chart paper - Markers - Guided notes handout - Differentiation materials (see below) - Assessment worksheet

Procedure:

1. Introduction (5 minutes) - Begin the lesson by asking students if they have ever encountered word problems that require more than one step to solve. - Discuss the importance of breaking down complex problems into smaller steps. - Explain that today, they will be learning how to solve two-step addition and subtraction word problems.

2. Direct Instruction (15 minutes) - Write a two-step addition word problem on the board, such as: “John has 5 apples. He buys 3 more apples and then gives away 2 apples. How many apples does John have now?” - Model the process of solving the problem step by step, using a think-aloud approach. - Emphasize the importance of identifying the key information, determining the necessary operations, and solving each step in order. - Repeat the process with a two-step subtraction word problem, such as: “Sara had 10 stickers. She lost 4 stickers and then found 2 more. How many stickers does Sara have now?”

3. Guided Practice (15 minutes) - Distribute the guided notes handout to students. - Work through a few more examples together, allowing students to fill in the steps and solutions on their handouts. - Provide opportunities for students to ask questions and clarify any confusion.

4. Differentiation (10 minutes) - Divide students into small groups based on their readiness levels. - Provide each group with a set of word problems that vary in difficulty. - For struggling students, provide simpler problems with more scaffolding, such as visual aids or manipulatives. - For advanced students, provide more challenging problems that require critical thinking and multiple steps.

5. Independent Practice (10 minutes) - Distribute the assessment worksheet to students. - Instruct them to solve the two-step addition and subtraction word problems independently. - Circulate the classroom to provide support and monitor progress.

6. Closure (5 minutes) - Review the steps for solving two-step addition and subtraction word problems. - Ask students to share any strategies or insights they gained from the lesson. - Summarize the importance of breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable steps.

Assessment: - The assessment worksheet will serve as the formal assessment for this lesson. - Review the students’ work to determine their understanding of two-step addition and subtraction word problems. - Provide feedback and additional support as needed.