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This Mixed Add Subtract drill has 40 problems for Grade 1. Firefighters theme. Answer key included.
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Max must solve math problems to unlock the fire truck before the emergency alarm bell rings!
Standard: CCSS.MATH.1.OA.C.6
Preview
Page 1 — Drill
Page 2 — Answer Key
What's Included
About this Grade 1 Mixed Add Subtract Drill
Mixed addition and subtraction problems help Grade 1 students develop flexible thinking about numbers—a crucial skill as they move beyond simple counting. At age 6-7, children are building number sense and learning that numbers can be combined or taken apart in different ways. When a student solves 5 + 2 - 1, they're not just computing; they're holding multiple operations in their working memory and deciding which action to do first. This strengthens their ability to focus, follow multi-step directions, and think logically. Real-world scenarios, like when a firefighter carries 3 tools, picks up 2 more, then sets 1 down, mirror these exact problems. Practicing mixed operations prepares students for more complex math and shows them that numbers are flexible tools for solving everyday situations.
What your student will practice
- Solve addition and subtraction in a single expression left to right
- Identify which operation to perform first when given mixed problems
- Apply number combinations within 10 to multi-step situations
- Communicate reasoning for the order of operations in mixed problems
Common mistakes to watch for
Many Grade 1 students reverse operations when they see a minus sign—solving 5 + 2 - 1 as 5 - 2 + 1 instead. Others forget the result of the first operation and lose track partway through, restarting with the original number each time. You'll spot this when a child writes 5 + 2 = 7, then ignores the 7 and subtracts from 5 again. Some students also rush and skip the second operation entirely, giving only the addition answer. Watch for hesitation or pencil-erasing patterns that suggest they're uncertain about sequencing.
Create a simple 'number story chain' during everyday moments: "We have 4 crackers, add 3 more—now we have 7. If you eat 2, how many are left?" Say the problem aloud, then act it out with the crackers themselves so your child sees the two steps happen in order. This concrete, playful approach mirrors how firefighters might count supplies and makes the abstract symbolism on the worksheet click naturally.