Math can be difficult to understand with multi-step word problems. Students need to know how to read word problems to solve the question. When I asked teachers what their biggest challenge was when teaching problem solving in math, most said it was starting the process.
Solving math word problems is a skill that needs to be practiced. Students should be solving word problems daily. They need to know the steps for problem solving in math. The process is complex, but let’s break down what your students need to know. Some of the obstacles to overcome are reading, applying strategies, and writing responses to solve the problem.
The Process of Problem Solving in Math
To solve a word problem in math, students need to complete a series of steps to find the correct answer. This process of problem solving can be broken down into a five step process. The steps are as follows Understanding the Problem, Making a Plan, Implementing the Plan, Writing a Response, and Looking Back.
1. Understanding the Problem
Reading a word problem is difficult for students who are struggling readers. Practice one word problem every day with your students. This will help build up their mathematical fluency with reading math problems. Do your students understand the basics of problem solving? Here is a list of problem solving questions to review with students.
- How do you read a word problem?
- What is the word problem asking you to answer?
- What operation(s) does it ask you to use?
2. Making a Plan
There are several problem solving math strategies that work. Pick one to start with. Teach your students what the strategy is and how to properly use it. Once students are more comfortable with the strategies they will be able to make a plan on their own. The goal of teaching problem solving in math is to develop independent learners.
3. Implementing the Plan
Making a plan is important, but sticking to it moves the process along. Choose one strategy and only use it. If the strategy that you chose does not work to solve the problem, then revisit step two. What strategy would work better? Choose that new strategy to move forward with. Step three is all about doing the operations necessary to solve the problem.
When implementing the problem solving plan it’s important to do the following:
- Understanding what operation you need to use.
- Staying focused on answering the question.
- Showing work completed for the problem.
4. Writing a Response
Writing an extended or short response for a math problem often seems like a difficult task. Why do you need to write your response in a sentence or two? Problem solving in math requires explanation. A student’s written response should explain what they did and how they did it to solve the problem.
When teaching students how to write a response, you can construct a response in multiple ways. The response should always contain three parts.
- Restate the problem.
- Explain your steps for problem solving.
- Write the answer clearly.
5. Looking Back
Teaching students to review their answers is important. Many students need to practice this self reflection. After students have answered a word problem review it with them. Model the questions they should be asking themselves. Tell students to ask,
- “Do my answers look right?”
- “Does my answer make sense?”
- “Did I answer the math question correctly?”
Our students need us to teach problem solving in math. They need more than long division practice, coordinate grid coloring, and mental math quick practice. They need to be TAUGHT how to problem solve. Teaching someone how to problem solve requires daily intentional lessons. It takes time.
Teaching problem solving in math can help your students be successful. Read the Guide “How to Teach Problem Solving” for more information on how you can help your students who get stuck on word problems. Understanding how to approach a word problem is an important skill to master. Implement one of problem solving techniques with your students today!
