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What can QuickMath do?

QuickMath will automatically answer the most common problems in algebra, equations and calculus faced by high-school and college students.

  • The algebra section allows you to expand, factor or simplify virtually any expression you choose. It also has commands for splitting fractions into partial fractions, combining several fractions into one and cancelling common factors within a fraction.
  • The equations section lets you solve an equation or system of equations. You can usually find the exact answer or, if necessary, a numerical answer to almost any accuracy you require.
  • The inequalities section lets you solve an inequality or a system of inequalities for a single variable. You can also plot inequalities in two variables.
  • The calculus section will carry out differentiation as well as definite and indefinite integration.
  • The matrices section contains commands for the arithmetic manipulation of matrices.
  • The graphs section contains commands for plotting equations and inequalities.
  • The numbers section has a percentages command for explaining the most common types of percentage problems and a section for dealing with scientific notation.

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Problem Solving in Mathematics

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The main reason for learning about math is to become a better problem solver in all aspects of life. Many problems are multistep and require some type of systematic approach. There are a couple of things you need to do when solving problems. Ask yourself exactly what type of information is being asked for: Is it one of addition, subtraction, multiplication , or division? Then determine all the information that is being given to you in the question.

Mathematician George Pólya’s book, “ How to Solve It: A New Aspect of Mathematical Method ,” written in 1957, is a great guide to have on hand. The ideas below, which provide you with general steps or strategies to solve math problems, are similar to those expressed in Pólya’s book and should help you untangle even the most complicated math problem.

Use Established Procedures

Learning how to solve problems in mathematics is knowing what to look for. Math problems often require established procedures and knowing what procedure to apply. To create procedures, you have to be familiar with the problem situation and be able to collect the appropriate information, identify a strategy or strategies, and use the strategy appropriately.

Problem-solving requires practice. When deciding on methods or procedures to use to solve problems, the first thing you will do is look for clues, which is one of the most important skills in solving problems in mathematics. If you begin to solve problems by looking for clue words, you will find that these words often indicate an operation.

Look for Clue Words

Think of yourself as a math detective. The first thing to do when you encounter a math problem is to look for clue words. This is one of the most important skills you can develop. If you begin to solve problems by looking for clue words, you will find that those words often indicate an operation.

Common clue words for addition  problems:

Common clue words for  subtraction  problems:

  • How much more

Common clue words for multiplication problems:

Common clue words for division problems:

Although clue words will vary a bit from problem to problem, you'll soon learn to recognize which words mean what in order to perform the correct operation.

Read the Problem Carefully

This, of course, means looking for clue words as outlined in the previous section. Once you’ve identified your clue words, highlight or underline them. This will let you know what kind of problem you’re dealing with. Then do the following:

  • Ask yourself if you've seen a problem similar to this one. If so, what is similar about it?
  • What did you need to do in that instance?
  • What facts are you given about this problem?
  • What facts do you still need to find out about this problem?

Develop a Plan and Review Your Work

Based on what you discovered by reading the problem carefully and identifying similar problems you’ve encountered before, you can then:

  • Define your problem-solving strategy or strategies. This might mean identifying patterns, using known formulas, using sketches, and even guessing and checking.
  • If your strategy doesn't work, it may lead you to an ah-ha moment and to a strategy that does work.

If it seems like you’ve solved the problem, ask yourself the following:

  • Does your solution seem probable?
  • Does it answer the initial question?
  • Did you answer using the language in the question?
  • Did you answer using the same units?

If you feel confident that the answer is “yes” to all questions, consider your problem solved.

Tips and Hints

Some key questions to consider as you approach the problem may be:

  • What are the keywords in the problem?
  • Do I need a data visual, such as a diagram, list, table, chart, or graph?
  • Is there a formula or equation that I'll need? If so, which one?
  • Will I need to use a calculator? Is there a pattern I can use or follow?

Read the problem carefully, and decide on a method to solve the problem. Once you've finished working the problem, check your work and ensure that your answer makes sense and that you've used the same terms and or units in your answer.

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A Guide to Problem Solving

When confronted with a problem, in which the solution is not clear, you need to be a skilled problem-solver to know how to proceed. When you look at STEP problems for the first time, it may seem like this problem-solving skill is out of your reach, but like any skill, you can improve your problem-solving with practice. How do I become a better problem-solver? First and foremost, the best way to become better at problem-solving is to try solving lots of problems! If you are preparing for STEP, it makes sense that some of these problems should be STEP questions, but to start off with it's worth spending time looking at problems from other sources. This collection of NRICH problems  is designed for younger students, but it's very worthwhile having a go at a few to practise the problem-solving technique in a context where the mathematics should be straightforward to you. Then as you become a more confident problem-solver you can try more past STEP questions. One student who worked with NRICH said: "From personal experience, I was disastrous at STEP to start with. Yet as I persisted with it for a long time it eventually started to click - 'it' referring to being able to solve problems much more easily. This happens because your brain starts to recognise that problems fall into various categories and you subconsciously remember successes and pitfalls of previous 'similar' problems." A Problem-solving Heuristic for STEP Below you will find some questions you can ask yourself while you are solving a problem. The questions are divided into four phases, based loosely on those found in George Pólya's 1945 book "How to Solve It". Understanding the problem

  • What area of mathematics is this?
  • What exactly am I being asked to do?
  • What do I know?
  • What do I need to find out?
  • What am I uncertain about?
  • Can I put the problem into my own words?

Devising a plan

  • Work out the first few steps before leaping in!
  • Have I seen something like it before?
  • Is there a diagram I could draw to help?
  • Is there another way of representing?
  • Would it be useful to try some suitable numbers first?
  • Is there some notation that will help?

Carrying out the plan STUCK!

  • Try special cases or a simpler problem
  • Work backwards
  • Guess and check
  • Be systematic
  • Work towards subgoals
  • Imagine your way through the problem
  • Has the plan failed? Know when it's time to abandon the plan and move on.

Looking back

  • Have I answered the question?
  • Sanity check for sense and consistency
  • Check the problem has been fully solved
  • Read through the solution and check the flow of the logic.

Throughout the problem solving process it's important to keep an eye on how you're feeling and making sure you're in control:

  • Am I getting stressed?
  • Is my plan working?
  • Am I spending too long on this?
  • Could I move on to something else and come back to this later?
  • Am I focussing on the problem?
  • Is my work becoming chaotic, do I need to slow down, go back and tidy up?
  • Do I need to STOP, PEN DOWN, THINK?

Finally, don't forget that STEP questions are designed to take at least 30-45 minutes to solve, and to start with they will take you longer than that. As a last resort, read the solution, but not until you have spent a long time just thinking about the problem, making notes, trying things out and looking at resources that can help you. If you do end up reading the solution, then come back to the same problem a few days or weeks later to have another go at it.

If you wish to print this document, pull down the "File" menu and select "Print".

Problem Solving Steps

Introduction.

Solving problems is an important part of any math course. Techniques used for solving math problems are also applicable to other real-world situations. When solving problems it is important to know what to look for and to understand possible strategies for solving. As with most things, the more problems you solve, the better you will get at it. As you solve different types of math problems, you will gain a better understanding of the techniques that can be used with each type of problem.

In his book called How to Solve It, George Polya (1887 – 1985), proposed a four-step process for problem solving. In this module, we will take a look at those four common problem-solving principles as well as examples of techniques to be applied when solving problems.

Step 1: Understand the problem

In order to solve a problem, it is important to understand what you are being asked to find.

Strategies for understanding the problem:

  • Review the problem. If you are solving a word problem, read through the entire problem.
  • Seek to understand all the words used in stating the problem. Look for key words that will help you determine whether you will need to add, subtract, multiply, divide, or use a combination of these functions.
  • Determine what you are being asked to find or show.
  • Restate the problem in your own words.
  • Try drawing a picture or diagram to better understand the problem.
  • Make sure you have all of the information you need to solve the problem.

Step 2: Develop a plan

Determine how you will solve the problem. Some problems are solved by using a formula and others require you to develop an equation. Pictures, tables, or charts may also be used.

Keep in mind, you may be solving problems that require multiple steps. When you encounter these, break them down into smaller steps and solve each piece. The more problems you solve, the easier it will get to develop a plan for solving problems. You will begin to learn what techniques work best for each type of problem you solve.

Here are some of the common problem-solving techniques:

  • Guess and check
  • Make a table or list
  • Eliminate possibilities
  • Use symmetry
  • Consider special cases
  • Solve as an equation
  • Look for a pattern
  • Draw a sketch or a picture
  • Solve a simpler problem
  • Use a model
  • Start from the end - work backward
  • Use a formula

Step 3: Carry out the plan

Once you have determined your plan for solving the problem, the next step is putting that plan to work. Use the approach that makes sense for the problem and solve it. In most cases, this step will be easier than actually determining the plan. Having an understanding of basic math (pre-algebra) skills will help as you perform the necessary steps to solve the problem. Memorizing the simple multiplication and division tables at least to 10 can make solving problems much easier as well.

If you find that the problem-solving approach you chose does not work, you will need to go back to step two and choose a new approach. Having patience while carrying out your plan is important. It is not uncommon for mathematicians to have to try multiple approaches when solving problems.

Step 4: Look back and check

Here is where you check your logic. If you solved an equation, fill your answer into the equation and check to make sure it works. If you solved a word problem, consider whether or not your answer makes sense. If the problem asked for the height of a ball in the air and your answer was -10 feet, that does not make sense. Just because you get a number doesn’t mean it is right. It is important to check your answer and see if it logically makes sense. If your answer does not make sense, you should review the approach you chose as well as your math calculations. Many errors are corrected in this final step of the problem-solving process.

Example Problems

Example 1 – Difference in temperature

The hottest temperature ever recorded in Death Valley, CA was 134 degrees on July 10, 1913. The coldest temperature ever recorded there, 15 degrees, occurred earlier that year on January 8, 1913. What was the difference between these record temperatures in 1913? (www.nps.gov)

Step 1: Understand the problem: After reading through the problem, you will find that the problem to solve is clearly stated. You will need to determine the difference in temperature between the hottest and coldest recorded days in Death Valley, CA.

Step 2: Develop a plan: As you were reading the problem, you noted the key word “difference.” To find the difference between two numbers, you will need to use subtraction. You are now ready to set up an equation. You can assign the variable, x, to the unknown. In this case, the unknown is the difference in temperatures.

x = 134 - 15

Step 3: Carry out the plan: Now that you have developed your equation, go ahead and solve it. x = 134 - 15 x = 119 degrees

Step 4: Look back and check: To check your equation, fill the answer back into the equation and make sure it works. Also, consider whether or not your answer makes sense. If you had received an answer that was significantly higher or lower than either of the temperatures in the problem, that would indicate that there may be an error in your calculations. 119 = 134 – 15

Example 2 – Interest Earned

If a savings account balance of $2650 earns 4% interest in one year, how much interest is earned? What will the account balance be after the interest is earned?

Step 1: Understand the problem: After reading through the problem, you recognize that there are actually two problems to solve. You will need to determine the amount of interest on the account balance and you will need to determine what the account balance will be when the interest is earned.

Step 2: Develop a plan: The first problem you need to solve is the amount of interest earned on $2650. To find the amount of interest, you will need to multiply the current account balance by the interest rate. In order to complete the multiplication problem, you will need to change the percent into a decimal. You can assign the variable, x, to the unknown. In this case, the unknown is the amount of interest earned.

Once you determine how much interest will be earned, you can solve the second problem. You will need to add the current balance and the interest earned to determine how much will be in the account once the interest is applied. To establish an equation for the second problem, you can assign a variable, y, to the unknown. You establish this equation to solve the second problem.

y = $2650 + x

Step 3: Carry out the plan: Now that you have developed your equations, go ahead and solve them.

Part 1: x = .04 x $2650 x = $106

Part 2: y = $2650 + x y = $2650 + $106 y = $2756

Step 4: Look back and check: To check your equations, fill the answers back into them. Also, consider whether or not your answers makes sense. If you had received an answer that was lower or significantly higher than the original account balance, that would indicate there may be an error in your calculations.

Part 1: $106 = .04 x $2650

Part 2: $2756 = $2650 + $106

Example 3 - Book Buyers

In a recent sample of book buyers, 70 more shopped at large-chain bookstores than at small-chain/independent bookstores. A total of 442 book buyers shopped at these two types of stores. How many buyers shopped at each type of bookstore?

Step 1: Understand the problem: After reading through the problem, you determine you are asked to find the number of buyers shopping at each type of bookstore.

Step 2: Develop a plan: To solve this problem you will need to assign a variable, x, for one of the unknowns. If x is the number of book buyers shopping at large-chain bookstores, then (x – 70) = the number of book buyers shopping at small-chain/independent bookstores.

To solve the problem, you come up with this equation: x + x - 70 = 442

Step 3: Carry out the plan: Now that you have developed your equation, go ahead and solve it.

x + x - 70 = 442 2x – 70 + 70 = 442 + 70 2x /2= 512 /2 x = 256

After solving the equation, you determine that 256 people shopped at large-chain bookstores. You can plug 256 into the equation representing those shopping at small-chain bookstores (x - 70).

256 – 70 = 186

186 people shopped at small-chain bookstores

Step 4: Look back and check: To check your answers, fill them back into the original problem. Also, consider whether or not your answers makes sense. If the number of small-chain store shoppers was greater than the number of large-chain store shoppers or if the two numbers did not equal 442 that would indicate there was an error in your calculations.

The number of large chain shoppers (256) is 70 more than the number of small-chain store shoppers (186), and the total number of these shoppers (256 + 186) is 442.

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6 Tips for Teaching Math Problem-Solving Skills

Solving word problems is tougher than computing with numbers, but elementary teachers can guide students to do the deep thinking involved.

Photo of elementary school teacher with students

A growing concern with students is the ability to problem-solve, especially with complex, multistep problems. Data shows that students struggle more when solving word problems than they do with computation , and so problem-solving should be considered separately from computation. Why?

Consider this. When we’re on the way to a new destination and we plug in our location to a map on our phone, it tells us what lane to be in and takes us around any detours or collisions, sometimes even buzzing our watch to remind us to turn. When I experience this as a driver, I don’t have to do the thinking. I can think about what I’m going to cook for dinner, not paying much attention to my surroundings other than to follow those directions. If I were to be asked to go there again, I wouldn’t be able to remember, and I would again seek help.

If we can switch to giving students strategies that require them to think instead of giving them too much support throughout the journey to the answer, we may be able to give them the ability to learn the skills to read a map and have several ways to get there.

Here are six ways we can start letting students do this thinking so that they can go through rigorous problem-solving again and again, paving their own way to the solution. 

1. Link problem-solving to reading

When we can remind students that they already have many comprehension skills and strategies they can easily use in math problem-solving, it can ease the anxiety surrounding the math problem. For example, providing them with strategies to practice, such as visualizing, acting out the problem with math tools like counters or base 10 blocks, drawing a quick sketch of the problem, retelling the story in their own words, etc., can really help them to utilize the skills they already have to make the task less daunting.

We can break these skills into specific short lessons so students have a bank of strategies to try on their own. Here's an example of an anchor chart that they can use for visualizing . Breaking up comprehension into specific skills can increase student independence and help teachers to be much more targeted in their problem-solving instruction. This allows students to build confidence and break down the barriers between reading and math to see they already have so many strengths that are transferable to all problems.

2. Avoid boxing students into choosing a specific operation

It can be so tempting to tell students to look for certain words that might mean a certain operation. This might even be thoroughly successful in kindergarten and first grade, but just like when our map tells us where to go, that limits students from becoming deep thinkers. It also expires once they get into the upper grades, where those words could be in a problem multiple times, creating more confusion when students are trying to follow a rule that may not exist in every problem.

We can encourage a variety of ways to solve problems instead of choosing the operation first. In first grade, a problem might say, “Joceline has 13 stuffed animals and Jordan has 17. How many more does Jordan have?” Some students might choose to subtract, but a lot of students might just count to find the amount in between. If we tell them that “how many more” means to subtract, we’re taking the thinking out of the problem altogether, allowing them to go on autopilot without truly solving the problem or using their comprehension skills to visualize it. 

3. Revisit ‘representation’

The word “representation” can be misleading. It seems like something to do after the process of solving. When students think they have to go straight to solving, they may not realize that they need a step in between to be able to support their understanding of what’s actually happening in the problem first.

Using an anchor chart like one of these ( lower grade , upper grade ) can help students to choose a representation that most closely matches what they’re visualizing in their mind. Once they sketch it out, it can give them a clearer picture of different ways they could solve the problem.

Think about this problem: “Varush went on a trip with his family to his grandmother’s house. It was 710 miles away. On the way there, three people took turns driving. His mom drove 214 miles. His dad drove 358 miles. His older sister drove the rest. How many miles did his sister drive?”

If we were to show this student the anchor chart, they would probably choose a number line or a strip diagram to help them understand what’s happening.

If we tell students they must always draw base 10 blocks in a place value chart, that doesn’t necessarily match the concept of this problem. When we ask students to match our way of thinking, we rob them of critical thinking practice and sometimes confuse them in the process. 

4. Give time to process

Sometimes as educators, we can feel rushed to get to everyone and everything that’s required. When solving a complex problem, students need time to just sit with a problem and wrestle with it, maybe even leaving it and coming back to it after a period of time.

This might mean we need to give them fewer problems but go deeper with those problems we give them. We can also speed up processing time when we allow for collaboration and talk time with peers on problem-solving tasks. 

5. Ask questions that let Students do the thinking

Questions or prompts during problem-solving should be very open-ended to promote thinking. Telling a student to reread the problem or to think about what tools or resources would help them solve it is a way to get them to try something new but not take over their thinking.

These skills are also transferable across content, and students will be reminded, “Good readers and mathematicians reread.” 

6. Spiral concepts so students frequently use problem-solving skills

When students don’t have to switch gears in between concepts, they’re not truly using deep problem-solving skills. They already kind of know what operation it might be or that it’s something they have at the forefront of their mind from recent learning. Being intentional within their learning stations and assessments about having a variety of rigorous problem-solving skills will refine their critical thinking abilities while building more and more resilience throughout the school year as they retain content learning in the process. 

Problem-solving skills are so abstract, and it can be tough to pinpoint exactly what students need. Sometimes we have to go slow to go fast. Slowing down and helping students have tools when they get stuck and enabling them to be critical thinkers will prepare them for life and allow them multiple ways to get to their own destination.

steps in problem solving math

Teaching Problem Solving in Math

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Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

Every year my students can be fantastic at math…until they start to see math with words. For some reason, once math gets translated into reading, even my best readers start to panic. There is just something about word problems, or problem-solving, that causes children to think they don’t know how to complete them.

Every year in math, I start off by teaching my students problem-solving skills and strategies. Every year they moan and groan that they know them. Every year – paragraph one above. It was a vicious cycle. I needed something new.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

I put together a problem-solving unit that would focus a bit more on strategies and steps in hopes that that would create problem-solving stars.

The Problem Solving Strategies

First, I wanted to make sure my students all learned the different strategies to solve problems, such as guess-and-check, using visuals (draw a picture, act it out, and modeling it), working backward, and organizational methods (tables, charts, and lists). In the past, I had used worksheet pages that would introduce one and provide the students with plenty of problems practicing that one strategy. I did like that because students could focus more on practicing the strategy itself, but I also wanted students to know when to use it, too, so I made sure they had both to practice.

I provided students with plenty of practice of the strategies, such as in this guess-and-check game.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

There’s also this visuals strategy wheel practice.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

I also provided them with paper dolls and a variety of clothing to create an organized list to determine just how many outfits their “friend” would have.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

Then, as I said above, we practiced in a variety of ways to make sure we knew exactly when to use them. I really wanted to make sure they had this down!

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

Anyway, after I knew they had down the various strategies and when to use them, then we went into the actual problem-solving steps.

The Problem Solving Steps

I wanted students to understand that when they see a story problem, it isn’t scary. Really, it’s just the equation written out in words in a real-life situation. Then, I provided them with the “keys to success.”

S tep 1 – Understand the Problem.   To help students understand the problem, I provided them with sample problems, and together we did five important things:

  • read the problem carefully
  • restated the problem in our own words
  • crossed out unimportant information
  • circled any important information
  • stated the goal or question to be solved

We did this over and over with example problems.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

Once I felt the students had it down, we practiced it in a game of problem-solving relay. Students raced one another to see how quickly they could get down to the nitty-gritty of the word problems. We weren’t solving the problems – yet.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

Then, we were on to Step 2 – Make a Plan . We talked about how this was where we were going to choose which strategy we were going to use. We also discussed how this was where we were going to figure out what operation to use. I taught the students Sheila Melton’s operation concept map.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

We talked about how if you know the total and know if it is equal or not, that will determine what operation you are doing. So, we took an example problem, such as:

Sheldon wants to make a cupcake for each of his 28 classmates. He can make 7 cupcakes with one box of cupcake mix. How many boxes will he need to buy?

We started off by asking ourselves, “Do we know the total?” We know there are a total of 28 classmates. So, yes, we are separating. Then, we ask, “Is it equal?” Yes, he wants to make a cupcake for EACH of his classmates. So, we are dividing: 28 divided by 7 = 4. He will need to buy 4 boxes. (I actually went ahead and solved it here – which is the next step, too.)

Step 3 – Solving the problem . We talked about how solving the problem involves the following:

  • taking our time
  • working the problem out
  • showing all our work
  • estimating the answer
  • using thinking strategies

We talked specifically about thinking strategies. Just like in reading, there are thinking strategies in math. I wanted students to be aware that sometimes when we are working on a problem, a particular strategy may not be working, and we may need to switch strategies. We also discussed that sometimes we may need to rethink the problem, to think of related content, or to even start over. We discussed these thinking strategies:

  • switch strategies or try a different one
  • rethink the problem
  • think of related content
  • decide if you need to make changes
  • check your work
  • but most important…don’t give up!

To make sure they were getting in practice utilizing these thinking strategies, I gave each group chart paper with a letter from a fellow “student” (not a real student), and they had to give advice on how to help them solve their problem using the thinking strategies above.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

Finally, Step 4 – Check It.   This is the step that students often miss. I wanted to emphasize just how important it is! I went over it with them, discussing that when they check their problems, they should always look for these things:

  • compare your answer to your estimate
  • check for reasonableness
  • check your calculations
  • add the units
  • restate the question in the answer
  • explain how you solved the problem

Then, I gave students practice cards. I provided them with example cards of “students” who had completed their assignments already, and I wanted them to be the teacher. They needed to check the work and make sure it was completed correctly. If it wasn’t, then they needed to tell what they missed and correct it.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

To demonstrate their understanding of the entire unit, we completed an adorable lap book (my first time ever putting together one or even creating one – I was surprised how well it turned out, actually). It was a great way to put everything we discussed in there.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

Once we were all done, students were officially Problem Solving S.T.A.R.S. I just reminded students frequently of this acronym.

Stop – Don’t rush with any solution; just take your time and look everything over.

Think – Take your time to think about the problem and solution.

Act  – Act on a strategy and try it out.

Review – Look it over and see if you got all the parts.

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

Wow, you are a true trooper sticking it out in this lengthy post! To sum up the majority of what I have written here, I have some problem-solving bookmarks FREE to help you remember and to help your students!

Problem solving tends to REALLY throw students for a loop when they're first introduced to it. Up until this point, math has been numbers, but now, math is numbers and words. I discuss four important steps I take in teaching problem solving, and I provide you with examples as I go. You can also check out my math workshop problem solving unit for third grade!

You can grab these problem-solving bookmarks for FREE by clicking here .

You can do any of these ideas without having to purchase anything. However, if you are looking to save some time and energy, then they are all found in my Math Workshop Problem Solving Unit . The unit is for grade three, but it  may work for other grade levels. The practice problems are all for the early third-grade level.

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Four-Step Math Problem Solving Strategies & Techniques

Four steps to success.

There are many possible strategies and techniques you can use to solve math problems. A useful starting point is a four step approach to math problem solving. These four steps can be summarized as follows:

  • Carefully read the problem. In this careful reading, you should especially seek to clearly identify the question that is to be answered. Also, a good, general understanding of what the problem means should be sought.
  • Choose a strategy to solve the problem. Some of the possible strategies will be discussed in the rest of this article.
  • Carry out the problem solving strategy. If the first problem solving technique you try doesn’t work, try another.
  • Check the solution. This check should make sure that you have indeed answered the question that was posed and that the answer makes sense.

Step One - Understanding the Problem

As you carefully read the problem, trying to clearly understand the meaning of the problem and the question that you must answer, here are some techniques to help.

Identify given information - Highlighting or underlining facts that are given helps to visualize what is known or given.

Identify information asked for - Highlighting the unknowns in a different color helps to keep the known information visually separate from the unknowns to be determined. Ideally this will lead to a clear identification of the question to be answered.

Look for keywords or clue words - One example of clue words is those that indicate what type of mathematical operation is needed, as follows:

Clue words indicating addition: sum, total, in all, perimeter.

Clue words indicating subtraction: difference, how much more, exceed.

Clue words for multiplication: product, total, area, times.

Clue words for division: share, distribute, quotient, average.

Draw a picture - This might also be considered part of solving the problem, but a good sketch showing given information and unknowns can be very helpful in understanding the problem.

Step Two - Choose the Right Strategy

It step one has been done well, it should ease the job of choosing among the strategies presented here for approaching the problem solving step. Here are some of the many possible math problem solving strategies.

  • Look for a pattern - This might be part of understanding the problem or it might be the first part of solving the problem.
  • Make an organized list - This is another means of organizing the information as part of understanding it or beginning the solution.
  • Make a table - In some cases the problem information may be more suitable for putting in a table rather than in a list.
  • Try to remember if you’ve done a similar problem before - If you have done a similar problem before, try to use the same approach that worked in the past for the solution.
  • Guess the answer - This may seem like a haphazard approach, but if you then check whether your guess was correct, and repeat as many times as necessary until you find the right answer, it works very well. Often information from checking on whether the answer was correct helps lead you to a good next guess.
  • Work backwards - Sometimes making the calculations in the reverse order works better.

Steps Three and Four - Solving the Problem and Checking the Solution

If the first two steps have been done well, then the last two steps should be easy. If the selected problem solving strategy doesn’t seem to work when you actually try it, go back to the list and try something else. Your check on the solution should show that you have actually answered the question that was asked in the problem, and to the extent possible, you should check on whether the answer makes common sense.

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Mathematics LibreTexts

4.9: Strategies for Solving Applications and Equations

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  • Page ID 113697

Learning Objectives

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

  • Use a problem solving strategy for word problems
  • Solve number word problems
  • Solve percent applications
  • Solve simple interest applications

Before you get started, take this readiness quiz.

  • Translate “six less than twice x ” into an algebraic expression. If you missed this problem, review [link] .
  • Convert 4.5% to a decimal. If you missed this problem, review [link] .
  • Convert 0.6 to a percent. If you missed this problem, review [link] .

Have you ever had any negative experiences in the past with word problems? When we feel we have no control, and continue repeating negative thoughts, we set up barriers to success. Realize that your negative experiences with word problems are in your past. To move forward you need to calm your fears and change your negative feelings.

Start with a fresh slate and begin to think positive thoughts. Repeating some of the following statements may be helpful to turn your thoughts positive. Thinking positive thoughts is a first step towards success.

  • I think I can! I think I can!
  • While word problems were hard in the past, I think I can try them now.
  • I am better prepared now—I think I will begin to understand word problems.
  • I am able to solve equations because I practiced many problems and I got help when I needed it—I can try that with word problems.
  • It may take time, but I can begin to solve word problems.
  • You are now well prepared and you are ready to succeed. If you take control and believe you can be successful, you will be able to master word problems.

Use a Problem Solving Strategy for Word Problems

Now that we can solve equations, we are ready to apply our new skills to word problems. We will develop a strategy we can use to solve any word problem successfully.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{1}\)

Normal yearly snowfall at the local ski resort is 12 inches more than twice the amount it received last season. The normal yearly snowfall is 62 inches. What was the snowfall last season at the ski resort?

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{2}\)

Guillermo bought textbooks and notebooks at the bookstore. The number of textbooks was three more than twice the number of notebooks. He bought seven textbooks. How many notebooks did he buy?

He bought two notebooks

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{3}\)

Gerry worked Sudoku puzzles and crossword puzzles this week. The number of Sudoku puzzles he completed is eight more than twice the number of crossword puzzles. He completed 22 Sudoku puzzles. How many crossword puzzles did he do?

He did seven crosswords puzzles

We summarize an effective strategy for problem solving.

PROBLEM SOLVING STRATEGY FOR WORD PROBLEMS

  • Read the problem. Make sure all the words and ideas are understood.
  • Identify what you are looking for.
  • Name what you are looking for. Choose a variable to represent that quantity.
  • Translate into an equation. It may be helpful to restate the problem in one sentence with all the important information. Then, translate the English sentence into an algebra equation.
  • Solve the equation using proper algebra techniques.
  • Check the answer in the problem to make sure it makes sense.
  • Answer the question with a complete sentence.

Solve Number Word Problems

We will now apply the problem solving strategy to “number word problems.” Number word problems give some clues about one or more numbers and we use these clues to write an equation. Number word problems provide good practice for using the Problem Solving Strategy.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{4}\)

The sum of seven times a number and eight is thirty-six. Find the number.

Did you notice that we left out some of the steps as we solved this equation? If you’re not yet ready to leave out these steps, write down as many as you need.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{5}\)

The sum of four times a number and two is fourteen. Find the number.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{6}\)

The sum of three times a number and seven is twenty-five. Find the number.

Some number word problems ask us to find two or more numbers. It may be tempting to name them all with different variables, but so far, we have only solved equations with one variable. In order to avoid using more than one variable, we will define the numbers in terms of the same variable. Be sure to read the problem carefully to discover how all the numbers relate to each other.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{7}\)

The sum of two numbers is negative fifteen. One number is nine less than the other. Find the numbers.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{8}\)

The sum of two numbers is negative twenty-three. One number is seven less than the other. Find the numbers.

\(−15,−8\)

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{9}\)

The sum of two numbers is negative eighteen. One number is forty more than the other. Find the numbers.

\(−29,11\)

Consecutive Integers (optional)

Some number problems involve consecutive integers . Consecutive integers are integers that immediately follow each other. Examples of consecutive integers are:

\[\begin{array}{rrrr} 1, & 2, & 3, & 4 \\ −10, & −9, & −8, & −7\\ 150, & 151, & 152, & 153 \end{array}\]

Notice that each number is one more than the number preceding it. Therefore, if we define the first integer as n , the next consecutive integer is \(n+1\). The one after that is one more than \(n+1\), so it is \(n+1+1\), which is \(n+2\).

\[\begin{array}{ll} n & 1^{\text{st}} \text{integer} \\ n+1 \;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\; & 2^{\text{nd}}\text{consecutive integer} \\ n+2 & 3^{\text{rd}}\text{consecutive integer} \;\;\;\;\;\;\;\; \text{etc.} \end{array}\]

We will use this notation to represent consecutive integers in the next example.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{10}\)

Find three consecutive integers whose sum is \(−54\).

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{11}\)

Find three consecutive integers whose sum is \(−96\).

\(−33,−32,−31\)

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{12}\)

Find three consecutive integers whose sum is \(−36\).

\(−13,−12,−11\)

Now that we have worked with consecutive integers, we will expand our work to include consecutive even integers and consecutive odd integers . Consecutive even integers are even integers that immediately follow one another. Examples of consecutive even integers are:

\[24, 26, 28\]

\[−12,−10,−8\]

Notice each integer is two more than the number preceding it. If we call the first one n , then the next one is \(n+2\). The one after that would be \(n+2+2\) or \(n+4\).

Consecutive odd integers are odd integers that immediately follow one another. Consider the consecutive odd integers 63, 65, and 67.

\[63, 65, 67\]

\[n,n+2,n+4\]

Does it seem strange to have to add two (an even number) to get the next odd number? Do we get an odd number or an even number when we add 2 to 3? to 11? to 47?

Whether the problem asks for consecutive even numbers or odd numbers, you do not have to do anything different. The pattern is still the same—to get to the next odd or the next even integer, add two.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{13}\)

Find three consecutive even integers whose sum is \(120\).

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{14}\)

Find three consecutive even integers whose sum is 102.

\(32, 34, 36\)

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{15}\)

Find three consecutive even integers whose sum is \(−24\).

\(−10,−8,−6\)

When a number problem is in a real life context, we still use the same strategies that we used for the previous examples.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{16}\)

A married couple together earns $110,000 a year. The wife earns $16,000 less than twice what her husband earns. What does the husband earn?

According to the National Automobile Dealers Association, the average cost of a car in 2014 was $28,400. This was $1,600 less than six times the cost in 1975. What was the average cost of a car in 1975?

The average cost was $5,000.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{18}\)

US Census data shows that the median price of new home in the U.S. in November 2014 was $280,900. This was $10,700 more than 14 times the price in November 1964. What was the median price of a new home in November 1964?

The median price was $19,300.

Solve Percent Applications

There are several methods to solve percent equations. In algebra, it is easiest if we just translate English sentences into algebraic equations and then solve the equations. Be sure to change the given percent to a decimal before you use it in the equation.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{19}\)

Translate and solve:

  • What number is 45% of 84?
  • 8.5% of what amount is $4.76?
  • 168 is what percent of 112?
  • What number is 45% of 80?
  • 7.5% of what amount is $1.95?
  • 110 is what percent of 88?

ⓐ 36 ⓑ $26 ⓒ \(125 \% \)

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{21}\)

  • What number is 55% of 60?
  • 8.5% of what amount is $3.06?
  • 126 is what percent of 72?

ⓐ 33 ⓑ $36 ⓐ \(175 \% \)

Now that we have a problem solving strategy to refer to, and have practiced solving basic percent equations, we are ready to solve percent applications. Be sure to ask yourself if your final answer makes sense—since many of the applications we will solve involve everyday situations, you can rely on your own experience.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{22}\)

The label on Audrey’s yogurt said that one serving provided 12 grams of protein, which is 24% of the recommended daily amount. What is the total recommended daily amount of protein?

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{23}\)

One serving of wheat square cereal has 7 grams of fiber, which is 28% of the recommended daily amount. What is the total recommended daily amount of fiber?

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{24}\)

One serving of rice cereal has 190 mg of sodium, which is 8% of the recommended daily amount. What is the total recommended daily amount of sodium?

Remember to put the answer in the form requested. In the next example we are looking for the percent.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{25}\)

Veronica is planning to make muffins from a mix. The package says each muffin will be 240 calories and 60 calories will be from fat. What percent of the total calories is from fat?

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{26}\)

Mitzi received some gourmet brownies as a gift. The wrapper said each 28% brownie was 480 calories, and had 240 calories of fat. What percent of the total calories in each brownie comes from fat? Round the answer to the nearest whole percent.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{27}\)

The mix Ricardo plans to use to make brownies says that each brownie will be 190 calories, and 76 calories are from fat. What percent of the total calories are from fat? Round the answer to the nearest whole percent.

It is often important in many fields—business, sciences, pop culture—to talk about how much an amount has increased or decreased over a certain period of time. This increase or decrease is generally expressed as a percent and called the percent change .

To find the percent change, first we find the amount of change, by finding the difference of the new amount and the original amount. Then we find what percent the amount of change is of the original amount.

FIND PERCENT CHANGE

\[\text{change}= \text{new amount}−\text{original amount}\]

change is what percent of the original amount?

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{28}\)

Recently, the California governor proposed raising community college fees from $36 a unit to $46 a unit. Find the percent change. (Round to the nearest tenth of a percent.)

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{29}\)

Find the percent change. (Round to the nearest tenth of a percent.) In 2011, the IRS increased the deductible mileage cost to 55.5 cents from 51 cents.

\(8.8 \% \)

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{30}\)

Find the percent change. (Round to the nearest tenth of a percent.) In 1995, the standard bus fare in Chicago was $1.50. In 2008, the standard bus fare was 2.25.

Applications of discount and mark-up are very common in retail settings.

When you buy an item on sale, the original price has been discounted by some dollar amount. The discount rate , usually given as a percent, is used to determine the amount of the discount . To determine the amount of discount, we multiply the discount rate by the original price.

The price a retailer pays for an item is called the original cost . The retailer then adds a mark-up to the original cost to get the list price , the price he sells the item for. The mark-up is usually calculated as a percent of the original cost. To determine the amount of mark-up, multiply the mark-up rate by the original cost.

\[ \begin{align} \text{amount of discount} &= \text{discount rate}· \text{original price} \\ \text{sale price} &= \text{original amount}– \text{discount price} \end{align}\]

The sale price should always be less than the original price.

\[\begin{align} \text{amount of mark-up} &= \text{mark-up rate}·\text{original price} \\ \text{list price} &= \text{original cost}–\text{mark-up} \end{align}\]

The list price should always be more than the original cost.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{31}\)

Liam’s art gallery bought a painting at an original cost of $750. Liam marked the price up 40%. Find

  • the amount of mark-up and
  • the list price of the painting.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{32}\)

Find ⓐ the amount of mark-up and ⓑ the list price: Jim’s music store bought a guitar at original cost $1,200. Jim marked the price up 50%.

ⓐ $600 ⓑ $1,800

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{33}\)

Find ⓐ the amount of mark-up and ⓑ the list price: The Auto Resale Store bought Pablo’s Toyota for $8,500. They marked the price up 35%.

ⓐ $2,975 ⓑ $11,475

Solve Simple Interest Applications

Interest is a part of our daily lives. From the interest earned on our savings to the interest we pay on a car loan or credit card debt, we all have some experience with interest in our lives.

The amount of money you initially deposit into a bank is called the principal , P , and the bank pays you interest, I. When you take out a loan, you pay interest on the amount you borrow, also called the principal.

In either case, the interest is computed as a certain percent of the principal, called the rate of interest , r . The rate of interest is usually expressed as a percent per year, and is calculated by using the decimal equivalent of the percent. The variable t , (for time) represents the number of years the money is saved or borrowed.

Interest is calculated as simple interest or compound interest. Here we will use simple interest.

SIMPLE INTEREST

If an amount of money, P , called the principal, is invested or borrowed for a period of t years at an annual interest rate r , the amount of interest, I , earned or paid is

\[ \begin{array}{ll} I=Prt \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \text{where} & { \begin{align} I &= \text{interest} \\ P &= \text{principal} \\ r &= \text{rate} \\ t &= \text{time} \end{align}} \end{array}\]

Interest earned or paid according to this formula is called simple interest .

The formula we use to calculate interest is \(I=Prt\). To use the formula we substitute in the values for variables that are given, and then solve for the unknown variable. It may be helpful to organize the information in a chart.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{34}\)

Areli invested a principal of $950 in her bank account that earned simple interest at an interest rate of 3%. How much interest did she earn in five years?

\( \begin{aligned} I & = \; ? \\ P & = \; \$ 950 \\ r & = \; 3 \% \\ t & = \; 5 \text{ years} \end{aligned}\)

\(\begin{array}{ll} \text{Identify what you are asked to find, and choose a} & \text{What is the simple interest?} \\ \text{variable to represent it.} & \text{Let } I= \text{interest.} \\ \text{Write the formula.} & I=Prt \\ \text{Substitute in the given information.} & I=(950)(0.03)(5) \\ \text{Simplify.} & I=142.5 \\ \text{Check.} \\ \text{Is } \$142.50 \text{ a reasonable amount of interest on } \$ \text{ 950?} \; \;\;\;\;\; \;\;\;\;\;\; \\ \text{Yes.} \\ \text{Write a complete sentence.} & \text{The interest is } \$ \text{142.50.} \end{array}\)

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{35}\)

Nathaly deposited $12,500 in her bank account where it will earn 4% simple interest. How much interest will Nathaly earn in five years?

He will earn $2,500.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{36}\)

Susana invested a principal of $36,000 in her bank account that earned simple interest at an interest rate of 6.5%.6.5%. How much interest did she earn in three years?

She earned $7,020.

There may be times when we know the amount of interest earned on a given principal over a certain length of time, but we do not know the rate.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{37}\)

Hang borrowed $7,500 from her parents to pay her tuition. In five years, she paid them $1,500 interest in addition to the $7,500 she borrowed. What was the rate of simple interest?

\( \begin{aligned} I & = \; \$ 1500 \\ P & = \; \$ 7500 \\ r & = \; ? \\ t & = \; 5 \text{ years} \end{aligned}\)

Identify what you are asked to find, and choose What is the rate of simple interest? a variable to represent it. Write the formula. Substitute in the given information. Multiply. Divide. Change to percent form. Let r = rate of interest. I = P r t 1,500 = ( 7,500 ) r ( 5 ) 1,500 = 37,500 r 0.04 = r 4 % = r Check. I = P r t 1,500 = ? ( 7,500 ) ( 0.04 ) ( 5 ) 1,500 = 1,500 ✓ Write a complete sentence. The rate of interest was 4%. Identify what you are asked to find, and choose What is the rate of simple interest? a variable to represent it. Write the formula. Substitute in the given information. Multiply. Divide. Change to percent form. Let r = rate of interest. I = P r t 1 ,500 = ( 7,500 ) r ( 5 ) 1,500 = 37,500 r 0.04 = r 4 % = r Check. I = P r t 1 ,500 = ? ( 7,500 ) ( 0.04 ) ( 5 ) 1,500 = 1, 500 ✓ Write a complete sentence. The rate of interest was 4%.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{38}\)

Jim lent his sister $5,000 to help her buy a house. In three years, she paid him the $5,000, plus $900 interest. What was the rate of simple interest?

The rate of simple interest was 6%.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{39}\)

Loren lent his brother $3,000 to help him buy a car. In four years, his brother paid him back the $3,000 plus $660 in interest. What was the rate of simple interest?

The rate of simple interest was 5.5%.

In the next example, we are asked to find the principal—the amount borrowed.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{40}\)

Sean’s new car loan statement said he would pay $4,866,25 in interest from a simple interest rate of 8.5% over five years. How much did he borrow to buy his new car?

\( \begin{aligned} I & = \; 4,866.25 \\ P & = \; ? \\ r & = \; 8.5 \% \\ t & = \; 5 \text{ years} \end{aligned}\)

Identify what you are asked to find, What is the amount borrowed (the principal)? and choose a variable to represent it. Write the formula. Substitute in the given information. Multiply. Divide. Let P = principal borrowed. I = P r t 4,866.25 = P ( 0.085 ) ( 5 ) 4,866.25 = 0.425 P 11,450 = P Check. I = P r t 4,866.25 = ? ( 11,450 ) ( 0.085 ) ( 5 ) 4,866.25 = 4,866.25 ✓ Write a complete sentence. The principal was $11,450. Identify what you are asked to find, What is the amount borrowed (the principal)? and choose a variable to represent it. Write the formula. Substitute in the given information. Multiply. Divide. Let P = principal borrowed. I = P r t 4 ,866.25 = P ( 0.085 ) ( 5 ) 4,866.25 = 0.425 P 11,450 = P Check. I = P r t 4 ,866.25 = ? ( 11,450 ) ( 0.085 ) ( 5 ) 4,866.25 = 4,866.25 ✓ Write a complete sentence. The principal was $11,450.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{41}\)

Eduardo noticed that his new car loan papers stated that with a 7.5% simple interest rate, he would pay $6,596.25 in interest over five years. How much did he borrow to pay for his car?

He paid $17,590.

EXAMPLE \(\PageIndex{42}\)

In five years, Gloria’s bank account earned $2,400 interest at 5% simple interest. How much had she deposited in the account?

She deposited $9,600.

Access this online resource for additional instruction and practice with using a problem solving strategy.

  • Begining Arithmetic Problems

Key Concepts

\(\text{change}=\text{new amount}−\text{original amount}\)

\(\text{change is what percent of the original amount?}\)

  • \( \begin{align} \text{amount of discount} &= \text{discount rate}· \text{original price} \\ \text{sale price} &= \text{original amount}– \text{discount price} \end{align}\)
  • \(\begin{align} \text{amount of mark-up} &= \text{mark-up rate}·\text{original price} \\ \text{list price} &= \text{original cost}–\text{mark-up} \end{align}\)
  • If an amount of money, P , called the principal, is invested or borrowed for a period of t years at an annual interest rate r , the amount of interest, I , earned or paid is: \[\begin{aligned} &{} &{} &{I=interest} \nonumber\\ &{I=Prt} &{\text{where} \space} &{P=principal} \nonumber\\ &{} &{\space} &{r=rate} \nonumber\\ &{} &{\space} &{t=time} \nonumber \end{aligned}\]

Practice Makes Perfect

1. List five positive thoughts you can say to yourself that will help you approach word problems with a positive attitude. You may want to copy them on a sheet of paper and put it in the front of your notebook, where you can read them often.

Answers will vary.

2. List five negative thoughts that you have said to yourself in the past that will hinder your progress on word problems. You may want to write each one on a small piece of paper and rip it up to symbolically destroy the negative thoughts.

In the following exercises, solve using the problem solving strategy for word problems. Remember to write a complete sentence to answer each question.

3. There are \(16\) girls in a school club. The number of girls is four more than twice the number of boys. Find the number of boys.

4. There are \(18\) Cub Scouts in Troop 645. The number of scouts is three more than five times the number of adult leaders. Find the number of adult leaders.

5. Huong is organizing paperback and hardback books for her club’s used book sale. The number of paperbacks is \(12\) less than three times the number of hardbacks. Huong had \(162\) paperbacks. How many hardback books were there?

58 hardback books

6. Jeff is lining up children’s and adult bicycles at the bike shop where he works. The number of children’s bicycles is nine less than three times the number of adult bicycles. There are \(42\) adult bicycles. How many children’s bicycles are there?

In the following exercises, solve each number word problem.

7. The difference of a number and \(12\) is three. Find the number.

8. The difference of a number and eight is four. Find the number.

9. The sum of three times a number and eight is \(23\). Find the number.

10. The sum of twice a number and six is \(14\). Find the number.

11 . The difference of twice a number and seven is \(17\). Find the number.

12. The difference of four times a number and seven is \(21\). Find the number.

13. Three times the sum of a number and nine is \(12\). Find the number.

14. Six times the sum of a number and eight is \(30\). Find the number.

15. One number is six more than the other. Their sum is \(42\). Find the numbers.

\(18, \;24\)

16. One number is five more than the other. Their sum is \(33\). Find the numbers.

17. The sum of two numbers is \(20\). One number is four less than the other. Find the numbers.

\(8, \;12\)

18 . The sum of two numbers is \(27\). One number is seven less than the other. Find the numbers.

19. One number is \(14\) less than another. If their sum is increased by seven, the result is \(85\). Find the numbers.

\(32,\; 46\)

20 . One number is \(11\) less than another. If their sum is increased by eight, the result is \(71\). Find the numbers.

21. The sum of two numbers is \(14\). One number is two less than three times the other. Find the numbers.

\(4,\; 10\)

22. The sum of two numbers is zero. One number is nine less than twice the other. Find the numbers.

23. The sum of two consecutive integers is \(77\). Find the integers.

\(38,\; 39\)

24. The sum of two consecutive integers is \(89\). Find the integers.

25. The sum of three consecutive integers is \(78\). Find the integers.

\(25,\; 26,\; 27\)

26. The sum of three consecutive integers is \(60\). Find the integers.

27. Find three consecutive integers whose sum is \(−36\).

\(−11,\;−12,\;−13\)

28. Find three consecutive integers whose sum is \(−3\).

29. Find three consecutive even integers whose sum is \(258\).

\(84,\; 86,\; 88\)

30. Find three consecutive even integers whose sum is \(222\).

31. Find three consecutive odd integers whose sum is \(−213\).

\(−69,\;−71,\;−73\)

32. Find three consecutive odd integers whose sum is \(−267\).

33. Philip pays \($1,620\) in rent every month. This amount is \($120\) more than twice what his brother Paul pays for rent. How much does Paul pay for rent?

34. Marc just bought an SUV for \($54,000\). This is \($7,400\) less than twice what his wife paid for her car last year. How much did his wife pay for her car?

35. Laurie has \($46,000\) invested in stocks and bonds. The amount invested in stocks is \($8,000\) less than three times the amount invested in bonds. How much does Laurie have invested in bonds?

\($13,500\)

36. Erica earned a total of \($50,450\) last year from her two jobs. The amount she earned from her job at the store was \($1,250\) more than three times the amount she earned from her job at the college. How much did she earn from her job at the college?

In the following exercises, translate and solve.

37. a. What number is 45% of 120? b. 81 is 75% of what number? c. What percent of 260 is 78?

a. 54 b. 108 c. 30%

38. a. What number is 65% of 100? b. 93 is 75% of what number? c. What percent of 215 is 86?

39. a. 250% of 65 is what number? b. 8.2% of what amount is $2.87? c. 30 is what percent of 20?

a. 162.5 b. $35 c. 150%

40. a. 150% of 90 is what number? b. 6.4% of what amount is $2.88? c. 50 is what percent of 40?

In the following exercises, solve.

41. Geneva treated her parents to dinner at their favorite restaurant. The bill was $74.25. Geneva wants to leave 16% of the total bill as a tip. How much should the tip be?

42. When Hiro and his co-workers had lunch at a restaurant near their work, the bill was $90.50. They want to leave 18% of the total bill as a tip. How much should the tip be?

43. One serving of oatmeal has 8 grams of fiber, which is 33% of the recommended daily amount. What is the total recommended daily amount of fiber?

44. One serving of trail mix has 67 grams of carbohydrates, which is 22% of the recommended daily amount. What is the total recommended daily amount of carbohydrates?

45. A bacon cheeseburger at a popular fast food restaurant contains 2070 milligrams (mg) of sodium, which is 86% of the recommended daily amount. What is the total recommended daily amount of sodium?

46. A grilled chicken salad at a popular fast food restaurant contains 650 milligrams (mg) of sodium, which is 27% of the recommended daily amount. What is the total recommended daily amount of sodium?

47. The nutrition fact sheet at a fast food restaurant says the fish sandwich has 380 calories, and 171 calories are from fat. What percent of the total calories is from fat?

48. The nutrition fact sheet at a fast food restaurant says a small portion of chicken nuggets has 190 calories, and 114 calories are from fat. What percent of the total calories is from fat?

49. Emma gets paid $3,000 per month. She pays $750 a month for rent. What percent of her monthly pay goes to rent?

50. Dimple gets paid $3,200 per month. She pays $960 a month for rent. What percent of her monthly pay goes to rent?

51. Tamanika received a raise in her hourly pay, from $15.50 to $17.36. Find the percent change.

52. Ayodele received a raise in her hourly pay, from $24.50 to $25.48. Find the percent change.

53. Annual student fees at the University of California rose from about $4,000 in 2000 to about $12,000 in 2010. Find the percent change.

54. The price of a share of one stock rose from $12.50 to $50. Find the percent change.

55. A grocery store reduced the price of a loaf of bread from $2.80 to $2.73. Find the percent change.

−2.5%

56. The price of a share of one stock fell from $8.75 to $8.54. Find the percent change.

57. Hernando’s salary was $49,500 last year. This year his salary was cut to $44,055. Find the percent change.

58. In ten years, the population of Detroit fell from 950,000 to about 712,500. Find the percent change.

In the following exercises, find a. the amount of discount and b. the sale price.

59. Janelle bought a beach chair on sale at 60% off. The original price was $44.95.

a. $26.97 b. $17.98

60. Errol bought a skateboard helmet on sale at 40% off. The original price was $49.95.

In the following exercises, find a. the amount of discount and b. the discount rate (Round to the nearest tenth of a percent if needed.)

61. Larry and Donna bought a sofa at the sale price of $1,344. The original price of the sofa was $1,920.

a. $576 b. 30%

62. Hiroshi bought a lawnmower at the sale price of $240. The original price of the lawnmower is $300.

In the following exercises, find a. the amount of the mark-up and b. the list price.

63. Daria bought a bracelet at original cost $16 to sell in her handicraft store. She marked the price up 45%. What was the list price of the bracelet?

a. $7.20 b. $23.20

64. Regina bought a handmade quilt at original cost $120 to sell in her quilt store. She marked the price up 55%. What was the list price of the quilt?

65. Tom paid $0.60 a pound for tomatoes to sell at his produce store. He added a 33% mark-up. What price did he charge his customers for the tomatoes?

a. $0.20 b. $0.80

66. Flora paid her supplier $0.74 a stem for roses to sell at her flower shop. She added an 85% mark-up. What price did she charge her customers for the roses?

67. Casey deposited $1,450 in a bank account that earned simple interest at an interest rate of 4%. How much interest was earned in two years?

68 . Terrence deposited $5,720 in a bank account that earned simple interest at an interest rate of 6%. How much interest was earned in four years?

69. Robin deposited $31,000 in a bank account that earned simple interest at an interest rate of 5.2%. How much interest was earned in three years?

70. Carleen deposited $16,400 in a bank account that earned simple interest at an interest rate of 3.9% How much interest was earned in eight years?

71. Hilaria borrowed $8,000 from her grandfather to pay for college. Five years later, she paid him back the $8,000, plus $1,200 interest. What was the rate of simple interest?

72. Kenneth lent his niece $1,200 to buy a computer. Two years later, she paid him back the $1,200, plus $96 interest. What was the rate of simple interest?

73. Lebron lent his daughter $20,000 to help her buy a condominium. When she sold the condominium four years later, she paid him the $20,000, plus $3,000 interest. What was the rate of simple interest?

74. Pablo borrowed $50,000 to start a business. Three years later, he repaid the $50,000, plus $9,375 interest. What was the rate of simple interest?

75. In 10 years, a bank account that paid 5.25% simple interest earned $18,375 interest. What was the principal of the account?

76. In 25 years, a bond that paid 4.75% simple interest earned $2,375 interest. What was the principal of the bond?

77. Joshua’s computer loan statement said he would pay $1,244.34 in simple interest for a three-year loan at 12.4%. How much did Joshua borrow to buy the computer?

78. Margaret’s car loan statement said she would pay $7,683.20 in simple interest for a five-year loan at 9.8%. How much did Margaret borrow to buy the car?

Everyday Math

79 . Tipping At the campus coffee cart, a medium coffee costs $1.65. MaryAnne brings $2.00 with her when she buys a cup of coffee and leaves the change as a tip. What percent tip does she leave?

80 . Tipping Four friends went out to lunch and the bill came to $53.75 They decided to add enough tip to make a total of $64, so that they could easily split the bill evenly among themselves. What percent tip did they leave?

Writing Exercises

81. What has been your past experience solving word problems? Where do you see yourself moving forward?

82. Without solving the problem “44 is 80% of what number” think about what the solution might be. Should it be a number that is greater than 44 or less than 44? Explain your reasoning.

83. After returning from vacation, Alex said he should have packed 50% fewer shorts and 200% more shirts. Explain what Alex meant.

84. Because of road construction in one city, commuters were advised to plan that their Monday morning commute would take 150% of their usual commuting time. Explain what this means.

a. After completing the exercises, use this checklist to evaluate your mastery of the objective of this section.

This table has four columns and five rows. The first row is a header and it labels each column, “I can…”, “Confidently,” “With some help,” and “No-I don’t get it!” In row 2, the I can was use a problem-solving strategy for word problems. In row 3, the I can was solve number problems. In row 4, the I can was solve percent applications. In row 5, the I can was solve simple interest applications.

b. After reviewing this checklist, what will you do to become confident for all objectives?

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Unit 8: Arithmetic patterns and problem solving

About this unit, 2-step expressions.

  • Order of operations (2-step expressions) (Opens a modal)
  • 2-step expressions Get 5 of 7 questions to level up!

Estimation word problems

  • 2-step estimation word problems (Opens a modal)
  • 2-step estimation word problems Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

One and two-step word problems

  • Setting up 2-step word problems (Opens a modal)
  • 2-step word problem: truffles (Opens a modal)
  • 2-step word problem: running (Opens a modal)
  • 2-step word problem: theater (Opens a modal)
  • Represent 2-step word problems with equations Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!
  • 2-step word problems Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

Patterns in arithmetic

  • Finding patterns in numbers (Opens a modal)
  • Recognizing number patterns (Opens a modal)
  • Intro to even and odd numbers (Opens a modal)
  • Patterns with multiplying even and odd numbers (Opens a modal)
  • Patterns in hundreds chart (Opens a modal)
  • Patterns in multiplication tables (Opens a modal)
  • Arithmetic patterns and problem solving: FAQ (Opens a modal)
  • Math patterns Get 5 of 7 questions to level up!
  • Patterns with even and odd Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!
  • Patterns in hundreds chart Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!
  • Patterns in multiplication tables Get 5 of 7 questions to level up!

Home

Reading & Math for K-5

  • Kindergarten
  • Learning numbers
  • Comparing numbers
  • Place Value
  • Roman numerals
  • Subtraction
  • Multiplication
  • Order of operations
  • Drills & practice
  • Measurement
  • Factoring & prime factors
  • Proportions
  • Shape & geometry
  • Data & graphing
  • Word problems
  • Children's stories
  • Leveled Stories
  • Context clues
  • Cause & effect
  • Compare & contrast
  • Fact vs. fiction
  • Fact vs. opinion
  • Main idea & details
  • Story elements
  • Conclusions & inferences
  • Sounds & phonics
  • Words & vocabulary
  • Reading comprehension
  • Early writing
  • Numbers & counting
  • Simple math
  • Social skills
  • Other activities
  • Dolch sight words
  • Fry sight words
  • Multiple meaning words
  • Prefixes & suffixes
  • Vocabulary cards
  • Other parts of speech
  • Punctuation
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  • Cursive alphabet
  • Cursive letters
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  • Cursive words
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  • Grammar & Writing

Breadcrumbs

How to Ace Math Problem Solving

steps in problem solving math

When your kids struggle with their math, it’s time to take a step back and take a deep breath. They need to slow down and take their time. Here’s a step by step guide that will help your kids get through those tough math problems.

We’ll use a grade 3 addition word problem as an example to clarify:

Pinky the Pig bought 36 apples while Danny the Duck bought 73 apples and 14 bananas. How many apples do they have altogether?

Read the problem

Carefully read through the problem to make sure you understand what is being asked.

Pinky the pig and Danny the duck bought apples and bananas. The question is how many apples they have together.

Re-read the problem

Read through the problem again and as you read through it, make notes.

Pinky the pig –36 apples. Danny the duck –73 apples and 14 bananas. How many apples together?

What is the problem asking

In your own words, say or write down exactly what the question is asking you to solve.

The question is asking how many apples the pig and the duck bought together.

Write it down in detail

Go through the problem and write out the information in an organized fashion. A diagram or table might help.

Turn it into math

Math problem solving

Figure out what math operation(s) or formula(s) you need to use in order to solve this problem.

The problem wants us to add the number of apples Pinky the Pig and Danny the Duck have together. That means we need to make use of addition to add the apples.

Find an example

Are you still struggling? Sometimes it’s hard to work out the solution, especially if the math problem involves several steps. It’s time to present the problem in an easier way. As teachers and parents we can often help our kids simplify the problem from our own math knowledge. If the problem is a bit harder, there are lots of resources online that you can look up for similar problems that have been worked out on paper or a video tutorial to watch.

In our example, let’s say the double-digit numbers are intimidating our student, so we’re going to simplify the equation for the sake of helping our student understand the operation needed.

Let’s say Pinky the Pig bought 3 apples and Danny the Duck 7 apples and 1 banana. Now, how many apples have they bought together? With 3 apples and 7 apples bought, the total number of apples is 10.

Work out the problem

Now that we have got to the bottom of what is being asked and know what operation to use, it’s time to work out the problem.

Pinky the Pig bought 36 apples. Danny the Duck bought 73 apples. (The 14 bananas do not matter) We need to add up the apples. 36 + 73 = 109

4 Best Steps To Problem Solving in Math That Lead to Results

Eastern Shore Math Teacher

Eastern Shore Math Teacher

What does problem solving in math mean, and how to develop these skills in students?  Problem solving involves tasks that are challenging and make students think.  In teaching through problem solving, learning takes place while trying to solve problems with specific concepts and skills. Therefore, teachers need to provide safe learning spaces that foster a growth mindset in math in order for students to take risks to solve problems.   In addition, providing students with problem solving steps in math builds success in solving problems.

A teacher working on problem solving in math.

By providing rich mathematical tasks and engaging puzzles, students improve their number sense and mindset about mathematics.  Click Here to get this Freebie of 71 Math Number Puzzles delivered to your inbox to use with your students. 

Students who feel successful in math class are happier and more engaged in learning.  Check out  The Bonus Guide for Creating a Growth Mindset Classroom and Students Who Love Math for ideas, lessons, and mindset surveys for students to use in your classroom to cultivate a positive classroom community in mathematics.    You can also sign up for other freebies from me Here at Easternshoremathteacher.com .

Have you ever given students a word problem or rich task, and they froze?  They have no idea how to tackle the problem, even if it is a concept they are successful with.   This is because they need problem solving strategies.  I started to incorporate more problem solving tasks into my teaching in addition to making the 4 steps for problem solving a school-wide initiative and saw results.  

Bonus Growth Mindset Classroom resources to use to cultivate a growth mindset classroom.

What is Problem Solving in Math?

When educators use the term problem solving , they are referring to mathematical tasks that are challenging and require students to think.   Such tasks or problems can promote students’ conceptual understanding, foster their ability to reason and communicate mathematically, and capture their interests and curiosity (Hiebert & Wearne, 1993; Marcus & Fey, 2003; NCTM, 1991; van de Walle, 2003).

When educators use the term problem solving, they are referring to mathematical tasks that are challenging and require students to think.

How Should Problem Solving For Math Be Taught?

Problem solving should not be done in isolation.  In the past, we would teach the concepts and procedures and then assign one-step “story” problems designed to provide practice on the content. Next, we would teach problem solving as a collection of strategies such as “draw a picture” or “guess and check.”  Eventually, students would be given problems to apply the skills and strategies.  Instead, we need to make problem solving an integral part of mathematics learning. 

In teaching through problem solving, learning takes place while trying to solve problems with specific concepts and skills. As students solve problems, they can use any strategy. Then, they justify their solutions with their classmates and learn new ways to solve problems. 

Students do not need every task to involve problem solving.  Sometimes the goal is to just learn a skill or strategy.   

List of Criteria for Problem Solving in Math

Criteria for Problem Solving Math 

Lappan and Phillips (1998) developed a set of criteria for a good problem that they used to develop their middle school mathematics curriculum (Connected Mathematics). The problem:

  • has important, useful mathematics embedded in it.
  • requires higher-level thinking and problem solving.
  • contributes to the conceptual development of students.
  • creates an opportunity for the teacher to assess what his or her students are learning and where they are experiencing difficulty.
  • can be approached by students in multiple ways using different solution strategies.
  • has various solutions or allows different decisions or positions to be taken and defended.
  • encourages student engagement and discourse.
  • connects to other important mathematical ideas.
  • promotes the skillful use of mathematics.
  • provides an opportunity to practice important skills.

Of course, not every problem will include all of the above. However, the first four are essential.  Sometimes, you will choose a problem because your students need an opportunity to practice a certain skill.

The real value of these criteria is that they provide teachers with guidelines for making decisions about how to make problem solving a central aspect of their instruction.  Read more at NCTM .

Resources to Use for Problem Solving Steps in Math.

Problem Solving Teaching Methods

Teaching students these 4 steps for solving problems allows them to have a process for unpacking difficult problems.  

As you teach, model the process of using these 4 steps to solve problems.   Then, encourage students to use these steps as they solve problems.   Click here for Posters, Bookmarks, and Labels to use in your classroom to promote the use of the problem solving steps in math.  

How Problem Solving Skills Develop

Problem solving skills are developed over time and are improved with effective teaching practices.  In addition, teachers need to select rich tasks that focus on the math concepts the teacher wants their students to explore. 

Problem Solving 4 Steps

Understand the problem.

 Read & Think

  • Circle the needed information and underline the question. 
  • Write an answer STEM sentence.  There are_____ pages left to read. 

Plan Out How to Solve the Problem

Make a Plan

  • Use a strategy.  (Draw a Picture, Work Backwards, Look for a Pattern, Create a Table, Bar Model)
  • Use math tools.

Do the Problem

Solve the Problem

  • Show your work to solve the problem.  This could include an equation. 

Check Your Work on the Problem

Answer & Check

  • Write the answer into the answer stem.
  • Does your answer make sense?
  • Check your work using a different strategy.

Check out these Printables for Problem Solving Steps in Math .

Problem Solving steps for Math poster.

Teaching Problem Solving Strategies

A problem solving strategy is a plan used to find a solution.  Understanding how a variety of problem solving strategies work is important because different problems require you to approach them in different ways to find the best solution. By mastering several problem-solving strategies, you can select the right plan for solving a problem.  Here are a few strategies to use with students:

  • Draw a Picture
  • Work Backwards
  • Look for a Pattern
  • Create a Table 

Why is Using Problem Solving Steps For Math Important?

Problem solving allows students to develop an understanding of concepts rather than just memorizing a set of procedures to solve a problem.  In addition, it fosters collaboration and communication when students explain the processes they used to arrive at a solution. Through problem-solving, students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts, become more engaged, and see the importance of mathematics in their lives. 

Girl Problem Solving.

NCTM Process Standards

In 2011 the Common Core State Standards incorporated the NCTM Process Standards of problem-solving, reasoning and proof, communication, representation, and connections into the Standards for Mathematical Practice.  With these process standards, the focus became more on mathematics through problem solving.   Students could no longer just develop procedural fluency, they needed to develop conceptual understanding in order to solve new problems and make connections between mathematical ideas. 

Engaging Students to Learn in Mathematics Class

Engaging students to learn in math class will help students to love math.  Children develop a dislike of math early on and end up resenting it into adult life.   Even in the real world, students will likely have to do some form of mathematics in their personal or working life.  So how can teachers make math more interesting to engage students in the subject? Read more at 5 Best Strategies for Engaging Students to Learn in Mathematics Class

Puzzles in Math with Answers on a computer screen.

Teachers can promote number sense by providing rich mathematical tasks and encouraging students to make connections to their own experiences and previous learning.

Sign up on my webpage to get this Freebie of 71 Math Number Puzzles delivered to your inbox to use with your students.  Providing opportunities to do math puzzles daily is one way to help students develop their number sense.  CLICK Here to sign up for  71 Math Number Puzzles and check out my website.

Promoting a Growth Mindset

Research shows that there is a link between a growth mindset and success. In addition, kids who have a growth mindset about their abilities perform better and are more engaged in the classroom.  Students need to be able to preserve and make mistakes when problem solving.  

Read more … 5 Powerful and Easy Lessons Teaching Students How to Get a Growth Mindset

Here are some Resources to Use to Grow a Growth Mindset

  • Free Mindset Survey
  • Growth Mindset Classroom Display Free
  • Growth Mindset Lessons

Growth Mindset in Math Resources on a computer screen.

Using Word Problems

Story Problems and word problems are one way to promote problem solving.   In addition, they provide great practice in using the 4 steps of solving problems.   Then, students are ready for more challenging problems.  

For Kindergarten

  • Subtraction within 5

For First Grade

  • Word Problems to 20
  • Word Problems of Subtraction

Word Problems of Addition and Subtraction on a computer screen.

For Second Grade

  • Two Step Word Problems with Addition and Subtraction
  • Grade 2 Addition and Subtraction Word Problems
  • Word Problems with Subtraction 

Problem Solving in Math with these addition and subtraction word problems with different problem structures. Can be used digitally or as a worksheet.

For Third Grade

  • Word Problems Division and Multiplication
  • Multiplication Word Problems

Use repeated addition to multiply and find the total number of items. See the connection between repeated addition and multiplication when using arrays.

For Fourth Grade

  • Multiplication Area Model
  • Multiplicative Comparison Word Problems

Solving Multiplicative comparison word problems on a computer screen.

Resources for Problem Solving

  • 3 Act Tasks
  • What’s the Best Proven Way to Teach Word Problems with Two Step Equations?
  • 5 Powerful and Easy Lessons Teaching Students How to Get a Growth Mindset
  • 5 Powerful Ideas to Help Students Develop a Growth Mindset in Mathematics

Problem Solving Steps For Math 

In mathematics, problem solving is one of the most important topics to teach.  Learning to problem solve helps students apply mathematics to real-world situations. In addition, it is used for a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. 

By providing rich mathematical tasks and engaging puzzles, students improve their number sense and mindset about mathematics.  Click Here to get this Freebie of 71 Math Number Puzzles delivered to your inbox to use with your students. 

Check out  The Free Ultimate Guide for Creating a Growth Mindset Classroom and Students Who Love Math for ideas, lessons, and mindset surveys to use to cultivate a growth mindset classroom.

Start by modeling using the problem solving steps in math and allowing opportunities for students to use the steps to solve problems.   As students become more comfortable with using the steps and have some strategies to use,  provide more challenging tasks.  Then, students will begin to see the importance of problem solving in math and connecting their learning to real-world situations. 

Kids solving word problems.

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Grab these parent tips for math at home. These parent tips will help parents work with their student in math just like this dad and son are working together.

What are Proven Positive Parent Tips for Math At Home?

I always like to share a list of parent tips for math at home during our

steps in problem solving math

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Teaching and Learning

Elevating math education through problem-based learning, by lisa matthews     feb 14, 2024.

Elevating Math Education Through Problem-Based Learning

Image Credit: rudall30 / Shutterstock

Imagine you are a mountaineer. Nothing excites you more than testing your skill, strength and resilience against some of the most extreme environments on the planet, and now you've decided to take on the greatest challenge of all: Everest, the tallest mountain in the world. You’ll be training for at least a year, slowly building up your endurance. Climbing Everest involves hiking for many hours per day, every day, for several weeks. How do you prepare for that?

The answer, as in many situations, lies in math. Climbers maximize their training by measuring their heart rate. When they train, they aim for a heart rate between 60 and 80 percent of their maximum. More than that, and they risk burning out. A heart rate below 60 percent means the training is too easy — they’ve got to push themselves harder. By combining this strategy with other types of training, overall fitness will increase over time, and eventually, climbers will be ready, in theory, for Everest.

steps in problem solving math

Knowledge Through Experience

The influence of constructivist theories has been instrumental in shaping PBL, from Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development, which argues that knowledge is constructed through experiences and interactions , to Leslie P. Steffe’s work on the importance of students constructing their own mathematical understanding rather than passively receiving information .

You don't become a skilled mountain climber by just reading or watching others climb. You become proficient by hitting the mountains, climbing, facing challenges and getting right back up when you stumble. And that's how people learn math.

steps in problem solving math

So what makes PBL different? The key to making it work is introducing the right level of problem. Remember Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development? It is essentially the space where learning and development occur most effectively – where the task is not so easy that it is boring but not so hard that it is discouraging. As with a mountaineer in training, that zone where the level of challenge is just right is where engagement really happens.

I’ve seen PBL build the confidence of students who thought they weren’t math people. It makes them feel capable and that their insights are valuable. They develop the most creative strategies; kids have said things that just blow my mind. All of a sudden, they are math people.

steps in problem solving math

Skills and Understanding

Despite the challenges, the trend toward PBL in math education has been growing , driven by evidence of its benefits in developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts, as well as building more positive math identities. The incorporation of PBL aligns well with the contemporary broader shift toward more student-centered, interactive and meaningful learning experiences. It has become an increasingly important component of effective math education, equipping students with the skills and understanding necessary for success in the 21st century.

At the heart of Imagine IM lies a commitment to providing students with opportunities for deep, active mathematics practice through problem-based learning. Imagine IM builds upon the problem-based pedagogy and instructional design of the renowned Illustrative Mathematics curriculum, adding a number of exclusive videos, digital interactives, design-enhanced print and hands-on tools.

The value of imagine im's enhancements is evident in the beautifully produced inspire math videos, from which the mountaineer scenario stems. inspire math videos showcase the math for each imagine im unit in a relevant and often unexpected real-world context to help spark curiosity. the videos use contexts from all around the world to make cross-curricular connections and increase engagement..

This article was sponsored by Imagine Learning and produced by the Solutions Studio team.

Imagine Learning

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Similar Problems from Web Search

MathPix - AI Math Solver 4+

Learn math, step-by-step by ai, turgut oztunc, designed for iphone.

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MathPix solves various complex problems with ease. It's the world's smartest math solver for algebra, graphing, calculus, and more! MathPix gives you unlimited access to math solutions that can help you understand complex concepts. Simply point your camera and snap a photo or type your math homework question for step-by-step answers. MathPix covers all levels of math, including Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and more. MathPix will be your mathematical lifesaver - finish your homework faster, prepare better for tests, and make getting those high grades less stressful. Key Features: ► Take a photo of your math problem in a snap; it's easy to use and efficient. ► Recognize math problems quickly and accurately. The homework solver is like a teacher on the spot. ► Use canvas tools to write your own problem on the phone and get the results step-by-step. ► Get detailed step-by-step solutions for solving math problems to understand better. ► Keep historical solving records and review them at any time. ► Covered topics: Algebra, Function, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus, Statistics and data analysis, Matrix, Logic. ► Get expert assistance on math homework assignments from the AI Math Tutor. ► Enhance your skills with brain training and tailored math courses for both students and pros. ► Ask any math question to your private AI Math Tutor and get an answer instantly. Note: The free version may have limitations. Privacy Policy: https://loopmobile.me/privacy.html Terms of use: https://loopmobile.me/tos.html

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    1. Link problem-solving to reading. When we can remind students that they already have many comprehension skills and strategies they can easily use in math problem-solving, it can ease the anxiety surrounding the math problem. For example, providing them with strategies to practice, such as visualizing, acting out the problem with math tools ...

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    Skills and Understanding. Despite the challenges, the trend toward PBL in math education has been growing, driven by evidence of its benefits in developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts, as well as building more positive math identities.The incorporation of PBL aligns well with the contemporary broader shift toward more student ...

  25. How to Multiply Fractions (Step-by-Step)

    Before you can solve this problem, you will have to convert the mixed number into an improper fraction. For this example, the mixed number 4 1/2 can be rewritten as 9/2 (both of these are equivalent): 3/5 x 4 1/2 → 3/5 x 9/2. Now, we can solve 3/5 x 9/2 to find the answer to this problem as follows: Step One: Multiply the numerators together.

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