3rd Grade Story Problems: Questions and Answers

Why Should My Child Practice 3rd Grade Story Problems?

In 3rd grade, students begin exploring multiplication and division. They also study fractions, perfect their ability to tell time and learn to calculate perimeter and area. Story problems, also called word problems, are important because they require students to apply the concepts they learn in school to real-world situations. They can be particularly beneficial for children who struggle to understand the usefulness of math, and some students may find story problems more engaging than math drills.

If your 3rd grader struggles to interpret story problems, encourage him to underline important information so he can concentrate on the numbers and disregard the excess information. The more your child practices word problems, the easier they will become and the more successful he will be in more advanced math classes. Because word problems also appear on most standardized math tests, story problem practice can help your child perform better on these high-stakes exams.

Story Problems and Solutions

1. Adam bought nine books for $7 each. How much money did he spend in all?

When writing your own story problems for 3rd graders, use basic multiplication facts, which include the numbers 0-12. The answer is $63.

2. At the grocery store, there are 45 free samples and nine hungry customers. How many free samples can each customer have?

To solve, divide 45 by nine (45 ÷ 9 = 5). Each customer can eat five free samples.

3. Which is larger, 1/2 or 3/4?

The answer is 3/4 is larger than 1/2. If your child is challenged by comparing fractions, suggest that he or she uses a picture.

For instance, draw two circles. Divide the first circle into two parts and color one part. Then, divide the second circle into four parts and color three. The visual representation may help your child compare the two fractions.

4. A room is 20 feet long by 31 feet wide. Calculate the perimeter and area.

Perimeter (P) is calculated by adding all the sides together. In this case, P = 20 + 20 + 31 + 31 = 102 feet.

Calculate the area (A) of the room using the formula A = length x width. In this case, A = 20 x 31 = 620 square feet.

5. A movie begins at 5:30 and lasts for two and a half hours. When will the movie end?

The movie will end at 8:00.