Description
Howdy, detective! Make math practice fun with this 1st Grade Word Problems Math Mystery Activity! ‘The Case of the Wacky Wild West’ is a high-engagement addition and subtraction word problems 1st grade activity that turns a standard review into an exciting case-solving challenge.
It’s the perfect no-prep math activity! This resource is loaded with options, including an optional video hook and a NEW ending video (with voiceovers!) to wrap up the case!
Easy Prep for Print or Digital
This resource is designed to be low-prep for you and high-engagement for your students.
- Printable PDF Version: Just print the worksheets, staple, and go.
- Google Slides Digital Version: 100% paperless! Simply assign in Google Classroom. (Students must be in ‘edit mode’ to type).
1st Grade Word Problems Math Mystery Activity
To find the Wild West criminal, students must unlock five clues by correctly solving a complete word problem review:
- Clue 1: Addition with 20 Word Problems
- Clue 2: Subtraction with 20 Word Problems
- Clue 3: Addition with 20 Word Problems
- Clue 4: Subtraction with 20 Word Problems
- Clue 5: Mix of Addition and Subtraction within 20 Word Problems
Flexible for Any 1st Grade Classroom
Use this versatile word problems within 20 activity for:
- A fun spiral review
- Math centers or stations
- Homework or enrichment
- Your “early finisher” tub
- A lifesaver for your sub-tub!
Pacing & Timing
This is a comprehensive review that can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2+ hours, depending on your students’ skill level. We recommend pacing it by one clue at a time.
Common Questions for this 1st Grade Math Review
Q: What skills does this mystery cover?
A: This is a comprehensive review of 1st grade word problems within 20. Students will practice both addition and subtraction scenarios.
Q: What exactly is a Math Mystery?
A: It’s our high-engagement, multimedia math activity! Students solve 5 clues to crack a case, all while watching fun video hooks. You can learn more about math mysteries here.
Q: How does differentiation work with these?
A: That’s our secret weapon! Many of our stories are available for other grades, so you can “clue swap.” We even have a blog post explaining how: learn how to differentiate here.
Looking for more 1st Grade adventures?
A complete answer key and printable awards are included!
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