Numberless Word Problems Differentiated Math Worksheets
 
This is a set of numberless word problems that support 3rd grade math standards, but also work for 4th graders who need more practice with story problems.
 
They include all four operations, plus fractions, perimeter, and two-step problems.
 
What are numberless word problems?
They are just what they sound like – word problems that don’t include any numbers.
 
Why use them?
Many students have trouble determining what operation to use in a problem. Or they rush through and just start doing something with whatever numbers they see. A numberless word problem requires them to think about what is happening which is an important step in solving word problems.
 
How do I use this resource?
The problems in this set are designed in a way that forces students to focus on the question being asked. They are also prompted to analyze the problem to determine what information is needed to solve it. It's a great way to build critical thinking skills in math.
 
You can also use these problems as an intervention tool with students who struggle with word problems.
 
I suggest using this resource either during whole group or small group instruction when students can discuss their thinking.
 
What is included?
There are 14 different word problems with 2 different versions of each. They are meant to provide a supplemental activity to your core math instruction.
 
Problems include:
addition
subtraction
multiplication
division
fractions
perimeter
2-step problems
 
Both versions ask students to identify the question being asked and think about what information is needed to solve it.

Version 1 requires students to rewrite the problem, adding their own numbers to complete it.
 
Version 2 provides more scaffolding, less writing, and includes space to actually solve the problem.
 
This resource does not include answer keys because the actual solutions will vary depending on what numbers students use to complete the problems.