Puzzled by Word Problems? See the Solution!
Stumped with word problems in math? This engaging strategy helps you picture their solutions.
1. Finding the answers to word problems in math can challenge your thinking. Try this simple problem-solving strategy. When you break word problems into pieces and sketch simple pictures of each step, the solution appears right before your eyes!
2. Before you start, find or make up some interesting word problems that your class can try to solve. Your teacher may also have some in mind.
3. A student volunteer reads a math problem to the class, one part at a time (for example, "Tierra has five colorful balloons in her hand"). Draw the items in the problem (5 balloons) with Crayola® Dry-Erase Markers on individual dry-erase boards.
4. Read the second part of the word problem ("One balloon pops"). Change your drawing to show the second part of the word problem (use a facial tissue to erase one balloon).
5. Ask for the answer to the word problem ("How many balloons does Tierra have left?"). Look at your drawing for the answer.
6. Repeat with new problems so everyone has several turns to read and share their solutions.
Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.
- Work in small groups with your classmates to devise ever-more challenging word problems. Exchange problems among groups to solve.
- Select math word problems related to topics you are studying in other subjects, such as science, social studies, music, and reading. For example, "Your school is 5 blocks from the library. You have walked 3 blocks to get there. How many blocks are left to walk until you get to the library?"
- Choose a mix of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division word problems. Make them increasingly more difficult.
- Assessment: Present original problems to the group in the same format. Observe closely to identify which children understand the concept and which children may need further assistance with basic computation skills.
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