Steps to solve word problems!

Have your child:

·       Start by reading the problem. Then have her tell you what the problem is about.

·       Identify all the numbers in the problem. Have her look for numbers written as words. Don’t let her forget “hidden” numbers like “half” or “a dozen.”

·       Read the problem again. Ask her to draw a picture or a diagram of what’s happening.

·       Read the problem another time. Ask her what she needs to find. For example, “How many apples did the farmer sell?”

·       Inquire. Teach her to ask, “What should I do to solve the problem?” Have her look for words or phrases that tell which math skill to use.

·       Here are some examples:

•       “Total” or “in all” will mean addition or multiplication.

•       “How much is left” or “how many more” will mean subtraction.

•       “How many . . . each” will mean division.

·       Give the problem a different look. Sometimes substituting smaller numbers can make it easier to solve the problem.

·      Sometimes acting out a problem can help.

·       Take a pencil and solve the problem. Check work. Make sure the answer makes sense.