Practice addition and subtraction facts within 20 to uncover a meaningful quote.
“The time is always right to do what is right.” –Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King said those words at Oberlin College in 1965, and almost 60 years later, that quote is still revered among his many famous speeches.
MLK Quote Math Worksheet — Curriculum Goals
Use this mental math strategies resource in the weeks surrounding MLK Day or during Black History Month.
Each addition and subtraction solution has a corresponding letter that students will match to the cipher at the bottom of the page. When they solve and pair each math sentence correctly, they will uncover Dr. King’s powerful message.
An answer sheet is included with your download for students to self-check their work.
Scaffolding + Extension Tips
In addition to individual student work time, use this MLK Day worksheet as a:
- Math warm-up exercise
- Math center activity
- Civil rights lesson exit ticket
- Homework assignment
- Whole-class review (via smartboard)
Got fast finishers? Students who need a challenge can use the backside of the page to write about what MLK’s quote means to them.
Students who need extra support can complete this activity in a 1:1 intervention or a guided group setting.
Prepare This Resource In A Variety Of Ways
Because this resource includes an answer sheet, we recommend you print one copy of the entire file. Then, make photocopies of the blank worksheet for students to complete.
You can also turn this teaching resource into a sustainable activity! Print a few copies on cardstock and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can record their answers with a dry-erase marker, then erase and reuse.
Additionally, project the worksheet onto a screen and work through it as a class by having students record their answers in their notebooks.
Before You Download
Please note this resource downloads as a black and white PDF. An answer key is also included for easy grading or for students to self-check their work.
Get More Martin Luther King, Jr. Day teaching resources »
Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities to stimulate engaging MLK lessons:
Introduce students to the people and events of the American civil rights movement with this 17-slide PowerPoint presentation. Use our graphic organizer with your students when studying Martin Luther King, Jr.’s notable mental and moral qualities. Honor the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a printable activity that lists 36 acts of service and kindness students can do in January to honor Dr. King's principles and values. 
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