Let's solve each of the multiplication problems step by step and identify the
"trick" problem that is *not* a multiplication problem.
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1) A pack of pens contains 3 pens. How many pens in 2 packs?
- Each pack has 3 pens.
- Number of packs = 2
- Total pens = $ 3 \times 2 = 6 $
✔ Answer: 6 pens
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2) How many wheels on 3 cars?
- Each car has 4 wheels.
- Number of cars = 3
- Total wheels = $ 4 \times 3 = 12 $
✔ Answer: 12 wheels
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3) A paperclip is made from 10cm of wire. How much wire would I need for 3 paperclips?
- Wire per paperclip = 10 cm
- Number of paperclips = 3
- Total wire = $ 10 \times 3 = 30 $ cm
✔ Answer: 30 cm
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4) Sally runs for 3 miles a day. How far will she run in 3 days?
- Distance per day = 3 miles
- Number of days = 3
- Total distance = $ 3 \times 3 = 9 $ miles
✔ Answer: 9 miles
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5) I buy 5 apples on Monday, and 7 more on Tuesday. How many have I bought in total?
- Apples on Monday = 5
- Apples on Tuesday = 7
- Total = $ 5 + 7 = 12 $
⚠️ This is an
addition problem, not multiplication!
✘ This is the "trick" problem!
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6) A multipack bag of crisps holds 6 packets. How many packs of crisps in 2 multipacks?
- Packets per multipack = 6
- Number of multipacks = 2
- Total packets = $ 6 \times 2 = 12 $
✔ Answer: 12 packs
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7) It takes a rocket 7 seconds to travel a mile. How long would it take the rocket to go 2 miles at that speed?
- Time per mile = 7 seconds
- Distance = 2 miles
- Total time = $ 7 \times 2 = 14 $ seconds
✔ Answer: 14 seconds
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✔ Final Answers:
1. 6
2. 12
3. 30 cm
4. 9 miles
5.
12 (Addition — this is the trick!)
6. 12
7. 14 seconds
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🚩 The "Trick Problem" is Problem #5
Because it involves
adding two amounts (5 + 7), not multiplying. All other problems involve repeated groups or scaling, which are multiplication scenarios.
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🔍 Summary:
>
The trick problem is #5, because it’s an
addition problem, not multiplication.
✔ You should circle or highlight
problem 5 as the one that is *not* a multiplication problem.
Let me know if you'd like this formatted as a printable answer sheet!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of 3rd grade problem solving worksheet.
