Multiplication & Division Word Problems

Inside the case file

Multiplication and division word problems, multi-digit computation practice, and one-step problem solving for 4th grade are all included in this school-themed Mini Mystery Detective pack of math worksheets. Students work through five printable detective cases, solving each word problem and using their answers to eliminate suspects until only the villain is left — perfect for math centers, morning work, early finishers, sub plans, homework, and spiral review. Completely no prep — just print and go.

What's Inside

Five school-themed cases of word problems, with a self-checking suspect line-up on every page:

• Multiplying a two-digit number by a one-digit number, a three-digit number by a one-digit number, and two two-digit numbers, using the standard algorithm and place-value strategies
• Dividing three-digit and four-digit numbers by a one-digit divisor, with every quotient exact so students can check their own work
• Choosing the right operation from the wording of the problem, with multiplication and division mixed together on every page
• Equal groups, arrays and rows, rates, and "times as many" multiplicative comparison situations
• Sharing equally between groups and packing into equal groups — both partitive and quotative division
• Reading and interpreting real classroom situations, then reasoning logically to cross suspects off the line-up
• Red-ink answer keys for every case

Five school mysteries to crack: The Pencil Box Puzzle, The Bus Seat Switch, The Locker Row Riddle, The Art Tray Tangle, and The Science Kit Swap. Answer keys included for every case.

What is a Mini Mystery Detective?

A no-prep detective activity where students solve math problems to cross off suspects and unmask the culprit. Every suspect wears an ID badge, and each correct answer matches one badge — so solving the page eliminates every suspect but one. Skill practice plus critical thinking in one engaging, self-checking worksheet set.

When to Use This Resource

• Math centers and rotations
• Morning work and bell ringers
• Early finishers
• Substitute and relief days
• Homework and independent practice
• Spiral review and test prep
• Small-group intervention
• Whole-class warm-ups

Grade Levels

Designed for 4th graders. Also beneficial for 5th and 6th grade students who need extra practice with multi-digit computation, and for advanced 3rd graders ready for a challenge.

Why Teachers Love Mystery Detectives

• Zero prep — just print and hand out
• Completely self-checking, so students catch their own mistakes without you marking every page
• The detective hook pulls in reluctant and struggling mathematicians
• Real word problems build problem solving, not just computation drill
• Students must decide whether to multiply or divide, which is where the real thinking happens
• Works for the whole class, in centers, or as independent practice

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