Age Problem: Sarah and her cousin

easyGrade 3-5age difference

The Problem

Sarah is 27 years old. Her cousin is 3 years younger than Sarah. How old is her cousin?

Answer:

24 years old

Key Information

  • Sarah is 27 years old
  • her cousin is 3 years younger

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Identify the given information

Sarah's age = 27 years, Age difference = 3 years
2

Set up the equation

her cousin's age = Sarah's age - 3
3

Substitute values

her cousin's age = 27 - 3
4

Calculate

27 - 3 = 24
5

Final answer

her cousin is 24 years old

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Adding instead of subtracting the age difference
  • Confusing who is older or younger

Helpful Tips

  • Read the problem carefully to identify who is older
  • Subtract when someone is younger, add when they are older

Real-World Application

Age problems help understand relationships between ages and develop subtraction skills.

Related Topics:

agesubtractionword problemsbasic math

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