Bond Paper Math: Solving A Subtraction Word Problem

Hey guys! Let's dive into a fun math problem today. We're going to break down a word problem about bond paper and figure out how to solve it step-by-step. Word problems can seem tricky at first, but don't worry, we'll make it easy. This involves understanding the keywords in the problem, setting up the correct equation, and then finding the solution. So, grab your thinking caps, and let's get started!

Understanding the Problem

Okay, so the problem goes like this: Jojo, who is the supply officer, initially took 673 pieces of bond paper. Then, he got an extra 75 pieces. After using some for office tasks, he found that he had used 569 pieces in total. The question we need to answer is: how many pieces of bond paper did Jojo not use? To begin solving this problem, we need to carefully identify the information given to us. Jojo starts with an initial amount of bond paper, gets more, and then uses some. Our mission is to find out what's left. This problem involves a couple of steps, but we can handle it! Remember to focus on the keywords like "took," "increased," and "used" to understand what operation to perform. Word problems in math are all about translating real-life situations into mathematical expressions, so understanding the scenario is crucial for getting the right answer. In this case, we're dealing with addition and subtraction, two of the fundamental operations in mathematics. The problem isn't just about numbers; it’s a story about managing supplies, and that’s what makes it relatable and engaging. So, let’s proceed to the next step and see how we can turn this story into a mathematical equation.

Breaking Down the Information

Let's break down the information we have. Jojo started with 673 pieces of bond paper. He then added 75 more pieces. So, the first thing we need to figure out is the total number of pieces Jojo had before he started using them. We can represent this as: Initial pieces + Additional pieces. In our case, that's 673 + 75. This is where we use addition to find the total. Remember, it's important to write down each step clearly. Next, we know Jojo used 569 pieces. This means we need to subtract the number of used pieces from the total number of pieces he had. So, we will subtract 569 from the result of our previous addition. Now, we have a clear picture of the steps we need to take. We're essentially going from a large number (the total he had) to a smaller number (what's left after using some). Visualizing the problem like this can really help in making sure we choose the correct operations. Recognizing what the numbers represent in the context of the problem is also a crucial skill in solving math word problems. So far, so good! We’ve dissected the problem and identified the key steps. Now, let’s move on to the next stage, which is formulating the equation that represents our problem.

Setting Up the Equation

Now that we've broken down the problem, let's set up the equation. We know Jojo started with 673 pieces and added 75 pieces. So, we add those together: 673 + 75. Then, he used 569 pieces, so we subtract that from the total: (673 + 75) - 569. Notice how we're using parentheses here. This tells us to do the addition first before the subtraction. It's super important to follow the order of operations in math, guys! This equation represents exactly what happened in the problem. It's like translating the story into math language. Think of it as a roadmap for solving the problem. Without the correct equation, we might end up with the wrong answer, even if our calculations are perfect. Setting up the equation correctly is half the battle. So, now that we have our equation, (673 + 75) - 569, we’re ready to roll up our sleeves and do some calculating. It’s all about taking it one step at a time and paying close attention to the order in which we perform the operations. With our equation in place, we've got a clear path to the solution. Let's head on over to the next section where we'll actually perform the calculations and find out how many pieces of bond paper Jojo didn't use.

Solving the Equation

Alright, let's solve this equation: (673 + 75) - 569. First, we need to do the addition inside the parentheses: 673 + 75. If we add these numbers, we get 748. So, our equation now looks like this: 748 - 569. Now, we just need to subtract 569 from 748. When we do that, we get 179. So, Jojo has 179 pieces of bond paper that he didn't use. See how we took it one step at a time? Addition first, then subtraction. It's like following a recipe! Making sure to perform the operations in the correct order is crucial in mathematics. Otherwise, we might end up with a very different answer. And that’s why parentheses are so important in equations – they tell us what to do first. Isn't it satisfying when the numbers fall into place and we arrive at the answer? It's like solving a puzzle. The key is to break it down into smaller, manageable steps. This not only makes the problem less intimidating but also reduces the chances of making a mistake. Now that we’ve got our final number, 179, we’re not quite done yet. The last thing we need to do is check if our answer makes sense in the context of the original problem. Let’s head to the next section to do just that!

Checking the Answer

Okay, we found that Jojo has 179 pieces of bond paper left. But does this answer make sense in the context of the problem? Let's think about it. Jojo started with a bunch of paper, got some more, and then used some. So, we should expect to have fewer pieces than the total he had initially, but not drastically less. Our answer, 179, seems reasonable. One way to check our answer is to work backward. If Jojo has 179 pieces left and he used 569 pieces, then before using them, he should have had 179 + 569 pieces. If we add those up, we get 748. This matches the total we calculated earlier (673 + 75 = 748), so our answer is likely correct! Always remember to check your work, guys. It's a simple step that can save you from making silly mistakes. Plus, it gives you confidence in your answer. Math isn't just about getting to a number; it's about understanding the process and knowing that your answer is logical. By checking our answer, we ensure that we not only got the right number but also understood the problem well enough to confirm its validity. So, with our answer double-checked and confirmed, we can confidently say that we’ve nailed this problem. Now, let’s wrap up with a summary of what we've learned and how we approached solving this word problem.

Conclusion

Great job, guys! We successfully solved the word problem about Jojo and the bond paper. We figured out that Jojo had 179 pieces of bond paper that he didn't use. Remember, the key to solving word problems is to break them down into smaller, manageable steps. First, we understood the problem and identified the information given. Then, we set up the equation: (673 + 75) - 569. Next, we solved the equation step-by-step, following the order of operations. Finally, we checked our answer to make sure it made sense. By following these steps, you can tackle any word problem with confidence. Math might seem daunting sometimes, but with a little bit of practice and a clear approach, you can totally rock it! Keep practicing, keep asking questions, and most importantly, keep having fun with math. Each problem you solve is a step forward in building your skills and confidence. And remember, it’s okay to make mistakes – they are a part of the learning process. What matters is that you understand where you went wrong and learn from it. So, let’s carry this problem-solving approach with us and apply it to all the math challenges that come our way. You’ve got this, guys! Until next time, keep those pencils sharp and those minds sharper!