30 Math Problems for 1st Graders
In 1st grade, students build upon mathematical concepts introduced in kindergarten, including addition and subtraction, telling time, counting money, measurement, and more. Here are 30 fun math problems for 1st graders.
Author
Katie Wickliff
Published:
November 2025
Key takeaways
- In 1st grade, students develop foundational skills necessary for future mathematical success.
- Word problems for 1st graders help build confidence and critical thinking skills.
- Math practice for 1st graders should be engaging and fun– quality practice problems and interactive math games help strengthen new skills.
First grade is an exciting time for students to grow as mathematicians. First graders focus on important math concepts, such as understanding place value, addition and subtraction, geometry, telling time, and measuring real-world items.
These 1st grade math problems cover a variety of concepts and are organized into sections: addition and subtraction, place value, geometry, measurement, and telling time.
The problems in each section progress from easiest to hardest, so feel free to choose the ones that best meet your child’s needs. We’ve included an answer sheet so your child can check their work independently.
Also, look for other opportunities for your child to practice their new mathematical skills. Math games, books, or engaging online math programs make 1st grade math practice fun. Let’s get started!
30 math problems for 1st graders (with answers!)
Addition and Subtraction Word Problems
1. Ellie has 4 green crayons and 3 red crayons. How many crayons does Ellie have altogether?
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2. Sam brings 5 cookies to school and shares 2 with Macy. How many cookies does Sam have left?
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3. Lola read 6 books on Saturday and her big sister read 8 books. How many books did the girls read altogether?
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4. Evan picked a bunch of flowers and gave 3 to his mom. Evan now has 7 flowers left. How many flowers did he pick?
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5. Two squirrels were sitting on the fence. Nine more squirrels joined them! How many squirrels are on the fence now?
Answer
Place Value
1. What is the digit in the ones place in the number 24?
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2. Write the number that comes next after 13.
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3. What is the digit in the tens place in the number 87?
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4. Write the number that comes before and after: ___ , 44, ___
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5. 64 = ___ tens and ___ ones
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6. 10 = ___ tens and ___ ones
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7. 17 = ___ tens and ___ ones
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8. Write the number that is 10 more than 71.
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9. Write the number that is 10 less than 63.
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10. Look at the hearts below. How many groups of ten are there?
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Table of contents
Geometry
1. Match the shape with its name:
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2. Find and point to the 3 ovals below.
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3. How many sides does a circle have?
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4. How many sides does a rectangle have?
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5. Using the rectangle below as an estimate, draw 1 bigger rectangle and 1 smaller rectangle:
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Measurement
1. How long is the caterpillar?
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2. How long is the spoon?
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3. Which one is longer – the pencil or the dollar bill?
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4. Brooke’s shoe measures 6 inches long. Gabe’s shoe measures 8 inches long. Which shoe is shorter?
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5. Look at the water bottles below. Which is the tallest? Which is the shortest?
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Telling Time
1. What time is on the clock?
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2. What time is on the clock?
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3. What time is on the clock?
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4. What time is on the clock?
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5. What time is on the clock?
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About the Author
Katie Wickliff
Katie holds a master’s degree in Education, has over 15 years of education experience as a primary classroom teacher, and is Orton-Gillingham certified tutor. Most importantly, Katie is the mother of two primary school students, ages 8 and 11. She is passionate about maths education and firmly believes that the right tools and support will help every student reach their full potential.