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Solve joining word problems

A joining situation represents a quantity increasing when another whole-number quantity is added, so the total is the sum of the starting amount and the amount joined, as in 7+5=127+5=12. The relationship can be modeled with drawings, ten-frames, number lines, or equations, with attention to distinguishing the initial amount, added amount, and total; problems involve sums within 20 and do not extend to larger numbers or generalized unknown-change cases.

Detailed Explanation: Solve joining word problems

A joining problem tells you that some are there at the start, and then more are added.

Look for:

  • Starting amount: how many there are first
  • Amount joined: how many more are added
  • Total: how many there are altogether

Example:
There are 77 birds on a fence. Then 55 more birds join them. How many birds are there now?

  1. Start with 77 birds.
  2. Add the 55 birds that join.
  3. Write an addition equation:
7+5=127+5=\boxed{12}

You can also count on from 77 five times:

8, 9, 10, 11, 128,\ 9,\ 10,\ 11,\ 12

So, there are 1212 birds altogether.

Learn by doing: Solve joining word problems

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Picture Numbers - Adding - Picture to Number (Within 20)


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