Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

We have been using our math brains to answer difficult math word problems.  The children made up a list of ways in which we could solve problems.
*drawing pictures
*counting up or back
*using a number line or hundred chart
*using manipulatives
*using our fingers

I read the children If You Give A Pig A Pancake and all of the problems had to do with pig.

The children have been solving problems with addends unknow.

6 + ? = 10
? - 7 =  2

Also solving problems with both addends unknow.

Pig had 5 pancakes.  How many were chocolate chip and how many were plain?

They have been working very hard on answering these "new to them" types of word problems.  Ask them about it!