Grade 2/Addition
Find the Missing Number
Find the missing number to complete the addition. The missing number can be the first number, second number, or the answer. Example: 45 + ____ = 53 (Answer: 8)
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Prerequisites
What to Do Next
Practice Questions
- 23 + ? = 29
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6
- ? + 8 = 53
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45
- 67 + ? = 72
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5
- ? + 4 = 38
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34
- 58 + ? = 65
Show answer
7
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Quick Tip
To find a missing number, think about what number makes the addition sentence true. You can count up or subtract to check.
Teacher Resources
Teaching Notes
Reinforce the relationship between addition and subtraction using fact families. Encourage students to visualize or model the numbers with tools.
Vocabulary
Equation: A number sentence with an equals sign.
Missing number: The unknown value in a problem.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing the unknown as the sum, rather than an addend.
- Calculation errors when using inverse operations.
- Not understanding that the 'missing' can be any part of the equation.
Differentiation
SupportUse manipulatives or a number line to visualize missing numbers.
ChallengeIntroduce larger numbers, multi-digit problems, or early algebraic thinking.
Discussion Questions
- How does subtraction help you solve addition problems?
- What strategies can you use to find the missing number?
- Can the missing number ever be zero? Explain.
- How is finding a missing addend different from finding a missing sum?
Extension Activities
- Use number lines to find missing numbers.
- Create missing number puzzles.
Parent Tip
Use toys: 'I have 3 cars, I need 5. How many more?'
Learning Path
Skill Cluster
Number Sense and Operations
Estimated Time
15 minutes
Skills Practiced
Find missing addendsMissing number addition