Missing number problems ask you to find the number that makes the addition sentence true. The number can be at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of the sentence.
Think about what you need to add to the given number to reach the total. Counting on from the given number can help.
A number line helps you see the “jumps” needed to reach the total. Start at the first number and count forward until you reach the answer.
Each jump represents adding 1. Count carefully to make sure you land exactly on the total.
Using real or drawn objects can help confirm your answer. Put groups together to see if the total matches the problem.
Arrange objects in two clear groups so you can see both the starting number and the added amount.
Counting on is a quick way to solve missing number problems. Start from the larger known number and count until you reach the total.
Encourage students to say each number out loud when counting on. This reinforces number order and addition facts.
Frequent practice helps make finding missing numbers faster and easier. Mix problems with the missing number in different positions.
Try solving without objects once you feel confident. This builds mental math skills.