CCSS.Math.Content.2.MD.B.5
The Standard
Use addition and subtraction within 100 to solve word problems involving lengths that are given in the same units, e.g., by using drawings (such as drawings of rulers) and equations with a symbol for the unknown number to represent the problem.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Measurement and Data
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students solve length story problems using addition and subtraction with numbers up to 100. They represent the situation with a drawing and an equation, then give the answer in the stated unit.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students choose addition or subtraction based on the situation, not just key words. They use a ruler drawing or number line, write an equation with an unknown, and label the answer correctly.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may add when the problem asks for a difference, or subtract when finding a total. They may ignore units, mix units, or assume the unknown always comes last.
How to Assess It
- Give this exit ticket: “A ribbon is 63 centimeters long. Mia cuts off 28 centimeters. How much remains?” Ask for a drawing, equation, and labeled answer.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs centimeter cubes to build two lengths, then have them combine or compare the lengths and write matching equations.
Ask, “Lena has 35 centimeters of string and needs 60 centimeters. How much more does she need?” Students draw and explain.
Play Length Problem Match by having students pair story cards with the correct ruler drawing and equation.
Measure two classroom objects in centimeters, then write and solve a story problem about their total length or difference.
Free download
Printable 2.MD.B.5 Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to CCSS.Math.Content.2.MD.B.5, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
Download the worksheetLearning progression
Where This Standard Sits
See the whole path on the Measurement & Data progression map.
Before This Standard
If students are struggling here, check these first.
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.MD.A.2
Understanding length as equal units supports interpreting length word problems and drawings, though the target mainly uses addition and subtraction.
- CCSS.Math.Content.2.OA.A.1
General addition and subtraction word-problem models carry directly into representing and solving same-unit length problems with drawings and equations.
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.OA.D.8
Students use the same missing-number addition and subtraction equations when representing unknown lengths in measurement word problems.
What This Unlocks
Mastery here sets students up for these next.
Keep exploring
Related Standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.OA.A.1
Use addition and subtraction within 20 to solve word problems involving situations of adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing, wit...
- CCSS.Math.Content.3.OA.A.3
Use multiplication and division within 100 to solve word problems in situations involving equal groups, arrays, and measurement quantities, e.g., by using drawi...
- CCSS.Math.Content.K.OA.A.2
Solve addition and subtraction word problems, and add and subtract within 10, e.g., by using objects or drawings to represent the problem.
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