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.

Benefits

• Children apply basic number concepts and computation skills while learning problem-solving strategies.
• Students contribute to an engaging group activity.
• Students demonstrate knowledge of math problem solving with individual dry-erase boards so their responses can be easily observed.

Adaptations

• 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
• 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.