1. **State the problem:** Find the sum of $38 + 7$. 2. **Recall the addition rule:** When adding two numbers, add the ones place first, then the tens place, carrying over if needed. 3. **Add the ones digits:** $8 + 7 = 15$. 4. **Break down 15 into tens and ones:** $15 = 10 + 5$. 5. **Add the tens digits plus the carried over 10:** $30 + 10 = 40$. 6. **Combine the tens and ones:** $40 + 5 = 45$. 7. **Final answer:** $38 + 7 = 45$. 8. **Fill in the blanks:** - $30 + 15 = 45$ - $38 + 7 = 45$