5 Steps to Solving Word Problems

Some students struggle with word problems, not sure where to begin with finding the correct operation to use. Here are a few Excel Math tips to get your students started down the road to success with solving word problems:

1. Read the problem.
It may help to have your students read the problem aloud, just to make sure they are reading it correctly.

2. Underline the important information.
Use a red or blue pen to underline the information (or highlight it) so it doesn't get lost on the page:
Jon picked one apple. Danny picked 5 apples. Together they picked how many apples?

3. What process will you use to get the answer?
Will you use addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, or a combination of all four?
Our apple example will use addition. The key word here is together they picked how many?

4. Write and solve a number sentence and label the answer.
It may also help to draw a picture or use counters to represent the problem.  

Read more . . .

What are some additional tips you give your students to help them solve word problems? Leave a comment below.

You may also enjoy these articles:

May Day Teacher Appreciation

Excel Math: TEKS Aligned and STAAR Ready 

Happy Birthday, Shakespeare!

Paul Revere's Ride: National Poetry Month

Excel Math: Powerful in a Core or Supplement Position