The sum of two numbers is 14, what could the two numbers be?

Question

Need to find the answer of this 2 nd grade math problem

Answer 1

To find the sum of two numbers, you add them.  The question is asking if you can think of two numbers which add up to 14.

 

Here's a few combinations that work:

1 and 13 works, since 1 + 13 = 14.

Also 7 and 7, since 7 + 7 = 14.

There are other combinations which add up to 14.  Try to find a few more!

Answer 2

There are several pairs of numbers that "could" make a sum of 14. I suggest listing those pairs:

1+13

2+12

3+11

4+10

5+9

6+8

 

I would avoid 7+7 because it is only "one" number added to itself, but the teacher might want that one, too. Notice the pattern: as the first number increases from 1 to 6, the second number decreases from 13 to 8. The number between 6 & 8 is exactly half of 14. The number we take away from 14 is the number we add to the remainder in order to make 14. I realize this sounds kind of goofy, but, for second graders, this is the addition-subtraction connection, a very important basic concept. Remember, we must be taught number sense & computation - they do not come naturally to most students. Arithmetic is like a foreign language - students do not begin life hearing it every day!

 

I'm pretty sure the teacher is trying to lead students toward grasping this number pattern by exercising the concept directly. For now, your child & their classmates will simply do the exercises. As they get better at it, they will learn to apply the concept to higher numbers & later to increasingly complicated math. As they grow, practice, and learn, they will be ready for the multiplication-division connection & the many wonders of numbers they can spend their lifetimes discovering. For now, just try to be patient while your child takes those first steps in math, and don't forget: children do not understand what we know about math - they must discover it gradually & methodically. The best learning is made within the brain of each child - we can't rush it & we can't predict when it will happen. We organize the lessons, let them practice & learn, and the results will unfold in their own time. Enjoy the journey!