Understanding how numbers increase and decrease is a key part of early number sense. In a first-grade classroom, this might look like adding more objects to a group or working out how many are left after some are taken away. To develop fluency with these ideas, students need clear, repeated opportunities to practice both counting on and counting back strategies in meaningful contexts.

This counting on and counting back word problems worksheet pack has been designed by the Teach Starter team to support students as they apply these strategies to real-world situations. The pack includes four non-prep, black-and-white worksheets.

Once students engage with these counting on and counting back worksheets, they will be able to solve simple addition and subtraction word problems using efficient mental math strategies and appropriate mathematical language.

Flexible Classroom Uses for These Counting On and Counting Back Worksheets

This worksheet pack fits seamlessly into your math block and can be used in a range of teaching contexts, including:

• Whole-class modeling – Project a worksheet onto your interactive whiteboard and work through the word problems together.
• Guided math groups – Use this worksheet pack to target specific counting on or counting back strategies.
• Independent practice – Students can complete the worksheets after explicit instruction.
• Fast finisher or homework tasks – Ideal for extending student understanding.

For added challenge, encourage students to write their own counting on or counting back word problems using similar structures.

Students who require extra support can use number lines, counters, or drawings to help them visualize each problem.

Download These Counting On and Counting Back Worksheets — Plus Editable Versions

This resource is available as a print-ready PDF, as well as an editable Google Slides version for easy differentiation. Use the Download button above to access your preferred format. (Please note that you will be prompted to make a personal copy of the Google Slides file before accessing.)

To save paper, consider printing the two-page worksheet double-sided, or turn this resource into a reusable activity by placing it in a write-and-wipe sleeve.

Lindsey Phillips, a teacher from Michigan and a Teach Starter collaborator, contributed to this resource.

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