Lesson 6

Compare Story Problems

Lesson Purpose

The purpose of this lesson is for students to solve Compare, Difference Unknown story problems.

Lesson Narrative

In this lesson, students practice solving Compare, Difference Unknown problems in which they are asked “how many more than” and “how many fewer than.” In the first activity, students solve problems in any way that makes sense to them. In the second activity, students are given information and asked to write questions that can be answered using the information. In both syntheses, students discuss how representing both quantities is helpful when solving Compare problems. 

If students need additional support with the concepts in this lesson, refer back to Unit 2, Section C in the curriculum materials. 

  • Representation
  • MLR2

Learning Goals

Teacher Facing

  • Solve Compare, Difference Unknown story problems in a way that makes sense to them.

Student Facing

  • Let’s solve compare story problems.

Required Materials

Required Preparation

CCSS Standards

Lesson Timeline

Warm-up 10 min
Activity 1 20 min
Activity 2 20 min
Lesson Synthesis 10 min
Cool-down 0 min

Teacher Reflection Questions

What was the best question you asked students today? Why would you consider it the best one based on what students said or did? 

Print Formatted Materials

Teachers with a valid work email address can click here to register or sign in for free access to Cool Down, Teacher Guide, and PowerPoint materials.

Student Task Statements pdf docx
Lesson Cover Page pdf docx
Teacher Guide Log In
Teacher Presentation Materials pdf docx

Additional Resources

Google Slides Log In
PowerPoint Slides Log In