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strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Strategies for Solving Word Problems – Math

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

It’s one thing to solve a math equation when all of the numbers are given to you but with word problems, when you start adding reading to the mix, that’s when it gets especially tricky.

The simple addition of those words ramps up the difficulty (and sometimes the math anxiety) by about 100!

How can you help your students become confident word problem solvers? By teaching your students to solve word problems in a step by step, organized way, you will give them the tools they need to solve word problems in a much more effective way.

Here are the seven strategies I use to help students solve word problems.

1. read the entire word problem.

Before students look for keywords and try to figure out what to do, they need to slow down a bit and read the whole word problem once (and even better, twice). This helps kids get the bigger picture to be able to understand it a little better too.

2. Think About the Word Problem

Students need to ask themselves three questions every time they are faced with a word problem. These questions will help them to set up a plan for solving the problem.

Here are the questions:

A. what exactly is the question.

What is the problem asking? Often times, curriculum writers include extra information in the problem for seemingly no good reason, except maybe to train kids to ignore that extraneous information (grrrr!). Students need to be able to stay focused, ignore those extra details, and find out what the real question is in a particular problem.

B. What do I need in order to find the answer?

Students need to narrow it down, even more, to figure out what is needed to solve the problem, whether it’s adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, or some combination of those. They’ll need a general idea of which information will be used (or not used) and what they’ll be doing.

This is where key words become very helpful. When students learn to recognize that certain words mean to add (like in all, altogether, combined ), while others mean to subtract, multiply, or to divide, it helps them decide how to proceed a little better

Here’s a Key Words Chart I like to use for teaching word problems. The handout could be copied at a smaller size and glued into interactive math notebooks. It could be placed in math folders or in binders under the math section if your students use binders.

One year I made huge math signs (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and divide symbols) and wrote the keywords around the symbols. These served as a permanent reminder of keywords for word problems in the classroom.

If you’d like to download this FREE Key Words handout, click here:

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

C. What information do I already have?

This is where students will focus in on the numbers which will be used to solve the problem.

3. Write on the Word Problem

This step reinforces the thinking which took place in step number two. Students use a pencil or colored pencils to notate information on worksheets (not books of course, unless they’re consumable). There are lots of ways to do this, but here’s what I like to do:

  • Circle any numbers you’ll use.
  • Lightly cross out any information you don’t need.
  • Underline the phrase or sentence which tells exactly what you’ll need to find.

4. Draw a Simple Picture and Label It

Drawing pictures using simple shapes like squares, circles, and rectangles help students visualize problems. Adding numbers or names as labels help too.

For example, if the word problem says that there were five boxes and each box had 4 apples in it, kids can draw five squares with the number four in each square. Instantly, kids can see the answer so much more easily!

5. Estimate the Answer Before Solving

Having a general idea of a ballpark answer for the problem lets students know if their actual answer is reasonable or not. This quick, rough estimate is a good math habit to get into. It helps students really think about their answer’s accuracy when the problem is finally solved.

6. Check Your Work When Done

This strategy goes along with the fifth strategy. One of the phrases I constantly use during math time is, Is your answer reasonable ? I want students to do more than to be number crunchers but to really think about what those numbers mean.

Also, when students get into the habit of checking work, they are more apt to catch careless mistakes, which are often the root of incorrect answers.

7. Practice Word Problems Often

Just like it takes practice to learn to play the clarinet, to dribble a ball in soccer, and to draw realistically, it takes practice to become a master word problem solver.

When students practice word problems, often several things happen. Word problems become less scary (no, really).

They start to notice similarities in types of problems and are able to more quickly understand how to solve them. They will gain confidence even when dealing with new types of word problems, knowing that they have successfully solved many word problems in the past.

If you’re looking for some word problem task cards, I have quite a few of them for 3rd – 5th graders.

This 3rd grade math task cards bundle has word problems in almost every one of its 30 task card sets..

There are also specific sets that are dedicated to word problems and two-step word problems too. I love these because there’s a task card set for every standard.

CLICK HERE to take a look at 3rd grade:

3rd Grade Math Task Cards Mega Bundle | 3rd Grade Math Centers Bundle

This 4th Grade Math Task Cards Bundle also has lots of word problems in almost every single of its 30 task card sets. These cards are perfect for centers, whole class, and for one on one.

CLICK HERE to see 4th grade:

th Grade 960 Math Task Cards Mega Bundle | 4th Grade Math Centers

This 5th Grade Math Task Cards Bundle is also loaded with word problems to give your students focused practice.

CLICK HERE to take a look at 5th grade:

5th Grade Math Task Cards Mega Bundle - 5th Grade Math Centers

Want to try a FREE set of math task cards to see what you think?

3rd Grade: Rounding Whole Numbers Task Cards

4th Grade: Convert Fractions and Decimals Task Cards

5th Grade: Read, Write, and Compare Decimals Task Cards

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How to teach word problems: strategies for elementary teachers.

If you are looking for tips and ideas for how to teach word problems to your elementary students, then you’ve found the right place! We know that teaching elementary students how to solve word problems is important for math concept and skill application, but it sure can feel like a daunting charge without knowing about the different types, the best practices for teaching them, and common misconceptions to plan in advance for, as well as having the resources you need. All this information will make you feel confident about how to teach addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division word problems! Teaching students how to solve word problems will be so much easier!

This blog post will address the following questions:

  • What is a word problem?
  • What is a multi-step word problem?
  • Why are elementary math word problems important?
  • Why are math word problems so hard for elementary students?
  • What are the types of word problems?
  • How do I teach math word problems in a systematic way?
  • What are the best elementary math word problem strategies I can teach my students and what are some tips for how to teach math word problems strategies?
  • Do you have any helpful tips for how to teach word problems?
  • What are the common mistakes I should look for that my students may make?
  • How do I address my students’ common misconceptions surrounding elementary math word problems?

girl in class raising her hand to solve a word problem

What is a Word Problem?

A word problem is a math situation that calls for an equation to be solved.  Students must apply their critical thinking skills to determine how to solve the problem.  Word problems give students the opportunity to practice turning situations into numbers.  This is critical as students progress in their education, as well as in their day-to-day life.  By teaching students how to solve word problems in a strategic way, you are setting them up for future success!

What is a Multi-Step Word Problem?

A multi-step word problem , also known as a two-step word problem or two-step equation word problem, is a math situation that involves more than one equation having to be answered in order to solve the ultimate question.  This requires students to apply their problem solving skills to determine which operation or operations to use to tackle the problem and find the necessary information.  In some cases, the situation may call for mixed operations, and in others the operations will be the same.  Multi-step word problems offer students the opportunity to practice the skill of applying different math concepts with a given problem.

elementary students practicing math word problems

Why are Word Problems Important in Math?

Word problems are essential in math because they give students the opportunity to apply what they have learned to a real life situation.  In addition, it facilitates students in developing their higher order thinking and critical thinking skills, creativity, positive mindset toward persevering while problem solving, and confidence in their math abilities.  Word problems are an effective tool for teachers to determine whether or not students understand and can apply the concepts and skills they learned to a real life situation.

Why do Students Struggle with Math Word Problems?

Knowing why students have trouble with word problems will help you better understand how to teach them. The reason why math word problems are difficult for your students is because of a few different reasons. First, students need to be able to fluently read and comprehend the text. Second, they need to be able to identify which operations and steps are needed to find the answer. Finally, they need to be able to accurately calculate the answer. If you have students who struggle with reading or English is their second language (ESL), they may not be able to accurately show what they know and can do because of language and literacy barriers. In these cases, it is appropriate to read the text aloud to them or have it translated into their native language for assignments and assessments.

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Types of Word Problems

Knowing the different types of word problems will help you better understand how to teach math word problems. Read below to learn about the four types of basic one-step addition and subtraction word problems, the subcategories within each of them, and specific examples for all of them. Two-step equation word problems can encompass two of the same type or two separate types (also known as mixed operation word problems).

This type of word problem involves an action that increases the original amount. There are three kinds: Result unknown, change unknown, and initial quantity unknown.

Result Unknown

Example : There were 7 kids swimming in the pool. 3 more kids jumped in. How many kids are in the pool now? (7 + 3 = ?)

Change Unknown

Example : There were 8 kids swimming in the pool. More kids jumped in. Now there are 15 kids in the pool. How many kids jumped in? (8 + ? = 15)

Initial Quantity Unknown

Example : There were kids swimming in the pool. 2 kids jumped in. Now there are 6 kids in the pool. How many kids were swimming in the pool at first? (? + 2 = 6)

2. Separate

This type of word problem involves an action that decreases the original amount. There are three kinds: Result unknown, change unknown, and initial quantity unknown.

Example: There were 12 kids swimming in the pool. 6 of the kids got out of the pool. How many kids are in the pool now? (12 – 6 = ?)

Example: There were 9 kids swimming in the pool. Some of the kids got out of the pool. Now there are 4 kids in the pool. How many kids got out of the pool? (9 – ? = 4)

Example: There were kids swimming in the pool. 3 of the kids got out of the pool. Now there are 2 kids in the pool. How many kids were in the pool at first? (? – 3 = 2)

3. Part-Part-Whole

This type of word problem does not involve an action like the join and separate types. Instead, it is about defining relationships among a whole and two parts. There are two kinds: result unknown and part unknown.

Example: There are 5 boys and 9 girls swimming in the pool. How many kids are in the pool? (5 + 9 = ?)

Part Unknown

Example: There are 12 kids swimming in the pool. 8 of them are girls and the rest of them are boys. How many boys are swimming in the pool? (8 + ? = 12)

This type of word problem does not involve an action or relationship like the three other types. Instead, it is about comparing two different unrelated items. There are two kinds: Difference unknown and quantity unknown.

Difference Unknown

Example: There are 2 kids in the pool. There are 7 kids in the yard. How many more kids are in the yard than in the pool? (2 + ? = 7 or 7 – 2 = ?)

Quantity Unknown

Example 1: There are 5 kids in the pool. There are 3 fewer kids playing in the yard. How many kids are playing in the yard? (5 – 3 = ?)

Example 2: There are 2 kids in the pool. There are 10 more kids playing in the yard than in the pool. How many kids are playing in the yard? (2 + 10 = ?)

elementary students solving word problems digitally

How to Solve Word Problems in 5 Easy Steps

Here are 5 steps that will help you teach word problems to your 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th or 5th grade students:

  • Read the problem.
  • Read the problem a second time and make meaning of it by visualizing, drawing pictures, and highlighting important information (numbers, phrases, and questions).
  • Plan how you will solve the problem by organizing information in a graphic organizer and writing down equations and formulas that you will need to solve.
  • Implement the plan and determine answer.
  • Reflect on your answer and determine if it is reasonable.  If not, check your work and start back at step one if needed.  If the answer is reasonable, check your answer and be prepared to explain how you solved it and why you chose the strategies you did.

5 Math Word Problem Strategies

Here are 5 strategies for how to teach elementary word problems:

Understand the math situation and what the question is asking by picturing what you read in your head while you are reading.

Draw Pictures

Make meaning of what the word problem is asking by drawing a picture of the math situation.

Make Models

Use math tools like base-ten blocks to model what is happening in the math situation.

Highlight Important Information

Underline or highlight important numbers, phrases, and questions.

Engage in Word Study

Look for key words and phrases like “less” or “in all.” Check out this blog post if you are interested in learning more about math word problem keywords and their limitations.

10 Tips for Teaching Students How to Solve Math Word Problems

Here are 10 tips for how to teach math word problems:

  • Model a positive attitude toward word problems and math.
  • Embody a growth mindset.
  • Model! Provide plenty of direct instruction.
  • Give lots of opportunities to practice.
  • Explicitly teach strategies and post anchor charts so students can access them and remember prior learning.
  • Celebrate the strategies and process rather than the correct answer.
  • Encourage students to continue persevering when they get stuck.
  • Invite students to act as peer tutors.
  • Provide opportunities for students to write their own word problems.
  • Engage in whole-group discussions when solving word problems as a class.

elementary students solving word problems

Common Misconceptions and Errors When Students Learn How to Solve Math Word Problems

Here are 5 common misconceptions or errors elementary students have or make surrounding math word problems:

1. Use the Incorrect Operation

Elementary students often apply the incorrect operations because they pull the numbers from a word problem and add them without considering what the question is asking them or they misunderstand what the problem is asking.  Early in their experience with word problems, this strategy may work most of the time; however, its effectiveness will cease as the math gets more complex.  It is important to instruct students to develop and apply problem-solving strategies.

Although helpful in determining the meaning, elementary students rely solely on key words and phrases in a word problem to determine what operation is being called for. Again, this may be an effective strategy early on in their math career, but it should not be the only strategy students use to determine what their plan of attack is.

2. Get Stuck in a Fixed Mindset

Some elementary students give up before starting a word problem because they think all word problems are too hard.  It is essential to instill a positive mindset towards math in students. The best way to do that is through modeling. If you portray an excitement for math, many of your students will share that same feeling.

3. Struggle with Reading Skills Component

For first and second graders (as well as struggling readers and ESL students), it is common for students to decode the text incorrectly. Along the same lines, some elementary students think they can’t solve word problems because they do not know how to read yet.  The purpose of word problems is not to assess whether a child can read or not.  Instead, the purpose is to assess their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.  As a result, it is appropriate to read word problems to elementary students.

4. Calculate Incorrectly

You’ll find instances where students will understand what the question is asking, but they will calculate the addends or the subtrahend from the minuend incorrectly. This type of error is important to note when analyzing student responses because it gives you valuable information for when you plan your instruction.

5. Encode Response Incorrectly

Another error that is important to note when analyzing student responses is when you find that they encode their solution in writing incorrectly. This means they understand what the problem is asking, they solve the operations correctly, document their work meticulously, but then write the incorrect answer on the line.

How to Address Common Misconceptions Surrounding Math Word Problems

You might be wondering, “What can I do in response to some of these misconceptions and errors?” After collecting and analyzing the data, forming groups based on the results, and planning differentiated instruction, you may want to consider trying out these prompts:

  • Can you reread the question aloud to me?
  • What is the question asking us to do?
  • How can we represent the information and question?
  • Can we represent the information and question with an equation?
  • What is our first step?
  • What is our next step?
  • Can you think of any strategies we use to help us solve?
  • How did you find your answer?
  • Can you walk me through how you found your answer step by step?
  • What do we need to remember when recording our answer?

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Now that you have all these tips and ideas for how to teach word problems, we would love for you to try these word problem resources with your students. They offer students opportunities to practice solving word problems after having learned how to solve word problems. You can download word problem worksheets specific to your grade level (along with lots of other math freebies) in our free printable math resources bundle using this link: free printable math activities for elementary teachers .

Check out my monthly word problem resources !

  • 1st Grade Word Problems
  • 2nd Grade Word Problems
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  • 5th Grade Word Problems

Check out this blog post offering ideas and strategies for teaching math word problems! This is helpful for 1st, 2nd, 2rd, 4th, and 5th grade classroom teachers. Make teaching and solving word problems fun and easy for elementary students! #wordproblems #mathwordproblems #teachingideas #teachingstrategies #elementarymath #realworldmath

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14 Effective Ways to Help Your Students Conquer Math Word Problems

If a train leaving Minneapolis is traveling at 87 miles an hour…

Word Problems WeAreTeachers

Word problems can be tricky for a lot of students, but they’re incredibly important to master. After all, in the real world, most math is in the form of word problems. “If one gallon of paint covers 400 square feet, and my wall measures 34 feet by 8 feet, how many gallons do I need?” “This sweater costs $135, but it’s on sale for 35% off. So how much is that?” Here are the best teacher-tested ideas for helping kids get a handle on these problems.

1. Solve word problems regularly

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

This might be the most important tip of all. Word problems should be part of everyday math practice, especially for older kids. Whenever possible, use word problems every time you teach a new math skill. Even better: give students a daily word problem to solve so they’ll get comfortable with the process.

Learn more: Teaching With Jennifer Findlay

2. Teach problem-solving routines

Word Problems Teacher Trap

There are a LOT of strategies out there for teaching kids how to solve word problems (keep reading to see some terrific examples). The important thing to remember is that what works for one student may not work for another. So introduce a basic routine like Plan-Solve-Check that every kid can use every time. You can expand on the Plan and Solve steps in a variety of ways, but this basic 3-step process ensures kids slow down and take their time.

Learn more: Word Problems Made Easy

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3. Visualize or model the problem

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Encourage students to think of word problems as an actual story or scenario. Try acting the problem out if possible, and draw pictures, diagrams, or models. Learn more about this method and get free printable templates at the link.

Learn more: Math Geek Mama

4. Make sure they identify the actual question

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Educator Robert Kaplinsky asked 32 eighth grade students to answer this nonsensical word problem. Only 25% of them realized they didn’t have the right information to answer the actual question; the other 75% gave a variety of numerical answers that involved adding, subtracting, or dividing the two numbers. That tells us kids really need to be trained to identify the actual question being asked before they proceed. 

Learn more: Robert Kaplinsky

5. Remove the numbers

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

It seems counterintuitive … math without numbers? But this word problem strategy really forces kids to slow down and examine the problem itself, without focusing on numbers at first. If the numbers were removed from the sheep/shepherd problem above, students would have no choice but to slow down and read more carefully, rather than plowing ahead without thinking. 

Learn more: Where the Magic Happens Teaching

6. Try the CUBES method

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

This is a tried-and-true method for teaching word problems, and it’s really effective for kids who are prone to working too fast and missing details. By taking the time to circle, box, and underline important information, students are more likely to find the correct answer to the question actually being asked.

Learn more: Teaching With a Mountain View

7. Show word problems the LOVE

Word Problems Jennifer Findlay

Here’s another fun acronym for tackling word problems: LOVE. Using this method, kids Label numbers and other key info, then explain Our thinking by writing the equation as a sentence. They use Visuals or models to help plan and list any and all Equations they’ll use. 

8. Consider teaching word problem key words

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

This is one of those methods that some teachers love and others hate. Those who like it feel it offers kids a simple tool for making sense of words and how they relate to math. Others feel it’s outdated, and prefer to teach word problems using context and situations instead (see below). You might just consider this one more trick to keep in your toolbox for students who need it.

Learn more: Book Units Teacher

9. Determine the operation for the situation

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Instead of (or in addition to) key words, have kids really analyze the situation presented to determine the right operation(s) to use. Some key words, like “total,” can be pretty vague. It’s worth taking the time to dig deeper into what the problem is really asking. Get a free printable chart and learn how to use this method at the link.

Learn more: Solving Word Problems With Jennifer Findlay

10. Differentiate word problems to build skills

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Sometimes students get so distracted by numbers that look big or scary that they give up right off the bat. For those cases, try working your way up to the skill at hand. For instance, instead of jumping right to subtracting 4 digit numbers, make the numbers smaller to start. Each successive problem can be a little more difficult, but kids will see they can use the same method regardless of the numbers themselves.

Learn more: Differentiating Math 

11. Ensure they can justify their answers

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

One of the quickest ways to find mistakes is to look closely at your answer and ensure it makes sense. If students can explain how they came to their conclusion, they’re much more likely to get the answer right. That’s why teachers have been asking students to “show their work” for decades now.

Learn more: Madly Learning

12. Write the answer in a sentence

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

When you think about it, this one makes so much sense. Word problems are presented in complete sentences, so the answers should be too. This helps students make certain they’re actually answering the question being asked… part of justifying their answer.

Learn more: Multi-Step Word Problems

13. Add rigor to your word problems

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

A smart way to help kids conquer word problems is to, well… give them better problems to conquer. A rich math word problem is accessible and feels real to students, like something that matters. It should allow for different ways to solve it and be open for discussion. A series of problems should be varied, using different operations and situations when possible, and even include multiple steps. Visit both of the links below for excellent tips on adding rigor to your math word problems.

Learn more: The Routty Math Teacher and Alyssa Teaches

14. Use a problem-solving rounds activity.

Word Problems Teacher Trap 3

Put all those word problem strategies and skills together with this whole-class activity. Start by reading the problem as a group and sharing important information. Then, have students work with a partner to plan how they’ll solve it. In round three, kids use those plans to solve the problem individually. Finally, they share their answer and methods with their partner and the class. Be sure to recognize and respect all problem-solving strategies that lead to the correct answer.

Learn more: Teacher Trap

Like these word problem tips and tricks? Learn more about Why It’s Important to Honor All Math Strategies .

Plus, 60+ Awesome Websites For Teaching and Learning Math .

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4 Math Word Problem Solving Strategies

Solving Math Word Problems

5 Strategies to Learn to Solve Math Word Problems

A critical step in math fluency is the ability to solve math word problems. The funny thing about solving math word problems is that it isn’t just about math. Students need to have strong reading skills as well as the growth mindset needed for problem-solving. Strong problem solving skills need to be taught as well. In this article, let’s go over some strategies to help students improve their math problem solving skills when it comes to math word problems. These skills are great for students of all levels but especially important for students that struggle with math anxiety or students with animosity toward math.

Signs of Students Struggling with Math Word Problems

It is important to look at the root cause of what is causing the student to struggle with math problems. If you are in a tutoring situation, you can check your students reading level to see if that is contributing to the issue. You can also support the student in understanding math keywords and key phrases that they might need unpacked. Next, students might need to slow their thinking down and be taught to tackle the word problem bit by bit.

How to Help Students Solve Math Word Problems

Focus on math keywords and mathematical key phrases.

The first step in helping students with math word problems is focusing on keywords and phrases. For example, the words combined or increased by can mean addition. If you teach keywords and phrases they should watch out for students will gain the cues needed to go about solving a word problem. It might be a good idea to have them underline or highlight these words.

Cross out Extra Information

Along with highlighting important keywords students should also try to decipher the important from unimportant information. To help emphasize what is important in the problem, ask your students to cross out the unimportant distracting information.  This way, it will allow them to focus on what they can use to solve the problem.

Encourage Asking Questions

As you give them time to read, allow them to have time to ask questions on what they just read. Asking questions will help them understand what to focus on and what to ignore. Once they get through that, they can figure out the right math questions and add another item under their problem-solving strategies.

Draw the Problem

A fun way to help your students understand the problem is through letting them draw it on graph paper. For example, if a math problem asks a student to count the number of fruits that Farmer John has, ask them to draw each fruit while counting them. This is a great strategy for visual learners.

Check Back Once They Answer

Once they figured out the answer to the math problem, ask them to recheck their answer. Checking their answer is a good habit for learning and one that should be encouraged but students need to be taught how to check their answer. So the first step would be to review the word problem to make sure that they are solving the correct problem. Then to make sure that they set it up right. This is important because sometimes students will check their equation but will not reread the word problem and make sure that the equation is set up right. So always have them do this first! Once students believe that they have read and set up the correct equation, they should be taught to check their work and redo the problem, I also like to teach them to use the opposite to double check, for example if their equation is 2+3=5, I will show them how to take 5 which is the whole and check their work backwards 5-3 and that should equal 2. This is an important step and solidifies mathematical thinking in children.

Mnemonic Devices

Mnemonic devices are a great way to remember all of the types of math strategy in this post. The following are ones that I have heard of and wanted to share:

Solving Math Word Problems

CUBES Word Problem Strategy

Cubes is a mnemonic to remember the following steps in solving math word problems:

C: Circle the numbers

U: Underline the question

B: Box in the key words

E: Eliminate the information

S: Solve the problem & show your work

RISE Word Problem Strategy

Rise is another way to explain the steps needed to solve problems:

R: Read and reread

I: Illustrate what is being asked

S: Solve by writing your equation or number sentences

E: Explain your thinking

RISE Math Word Problem Strategy

COINS Word Problem Strategy

C: Comprehend the questions

O: Observe the data

I: Illustrate the problem

N: Write the number sentence (equation)

Understand -Plan – Solve – Check Word Problem Strategy

This is a simple step solution to show students the big picture. I think this along with one of the mnemonic devices helps students with better understanding of the approach.

Understand: What is the question asking? Do you understand all the words?

Plan: What would be a reasonable answer? In this stage students are formulating their approach to the word problem. 

Solve: What strategies will I use to solve this problem? Am I showing my thinking? Here students use the strategies outlined in this post to attack the problem.

Check: Students will ask themselves if they answered the question and if their answer makes sense. 

Understand -Plan - Solve - Check Word Problem Strategy

If you need word problems to use with your classroom, you can check out my word problems resource below.

Math Word Problems

Teaching students how to approach and solve math word problems is an important skill. Solving word problems is the closest math skill that resembles math in the real world. Encouraging students to slow their thinking, examine and analyze the word problem and encourage the habit of answer checking will give your students the learning skills that can be applied not only to math but to all learning. I also wrote a blog post on a specific type of math word problem called cognitively guided instruction you can read information on that too. It is just a different way that math problems are written and worth understanding to teach problem solving, click here to read .

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Multi-Step Word Problems Mastery

By Mary Montero

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Over the years, I've come up with a few different ideas, anchor charts, and activities for helping students master solving multi-step word problems!

How many of you cringe at the thought of teaching your students multi-step word problems? (RAISES HAND!) I get it. I know. It’s tough. It is overwhelming, and it’s not necessarily something that just “clicks” for kids. They need practice, they need time to think through problems, and they need to start really thinking like mathematicians in order to become proficient at more difficult problems. Luckily, over the years, I’ve come up with a few different ideas and activities for helping students master multi-step word problems! There are TONS of freebies in this post. Enjoy!

Over the years, I've come up with a few different ideas, anchor charts, and activities for helping students master solving multi-step word problems!

CUBES for Problem Solving

I always begin problem-solving (not just multi-step word problems) by teaching my students CUBES. This has been around for years, in many different variations. An oldie but a goodie, if you will!

solving word problems anchor chart

I REALLY, REALLY emphasize the “E” because this is where kids get stuck. I created the three “What” questions that they need to be able to answer before they can move on and solve the problem. Before they try to solve the problems, they need to ask themselves:

  • What label will my answer have? (This helps them narrow down exactly what they are doing with the problem, and maybe, just maybe, it helps them remember to include a label!)
  • What information do I HAVE to answer the question?
  • What information do I NEED to answer the question?

I have found that kids are almost always able to figure out the answers to these questions when they are required to stop and think about it, and this step ALWAYS helps to set them up for problem-solving success!

Teaching my students to use a pretty specific format for showing their work and solving word problems. I have been using some variation of this for years, and it has evolved the more and more I have used it.

The Single-Step Format

The sample problem I used in this anchor chart is a SINGLE-STEP problem, and I would highly encourage you to teach this format using a single-step format, then move on later to using it for multi-step (hang tight! I will address using this format with multi-step problems soon!).

word problems anchor chart

Now, do I recommend you use this format for every single word problem students use? Absolutely not. However, we do at least one or two a week this way simply because of the “answer” section and how important it is for students to be able to explain their math process.

Students always have to begin their written answers with “To solve this problem, I…” and they always have to end it with “Therefore, I know…” Students are always very tempted to say, “To solve this problem I added 1,098 and 530. Therefore, I know the answer is 1,628 calories.” Is this right? Sure! But is it the best answer and explanation they could have given? Nope.

I always encourage my students to be VERY specific about what the numbers are that they are addressing when they write out their answers. This helps them really evaluate their thinking and see if it made sense. There is a big difference between telling me which numbers you added and what those numbers represent. This also encourages students to restate the question in their answer and make sure they have actually answered the question that is being asked.

**THIS IS ALWAYS A CHALLENGE!** It takes my students several examples to catch on to explaining their answers in this way, but it is so, so worth it once they truly understand. Here is another student sample:

additon word problems

Introducing Multi-Step Problem Solving

Now, before I have them use this model for multi-step problems, there are a few activities we do to prepare for that challenge and to get them comfortable with multi-step problems.

First, I have them do a little sequencing sort. I give them a completed multi-step problem with all of the steps out of order. The steps are written in the same format as described above, with very specific instructions walking the reader through how they solved the problem. The students put the directions back in order and make sure it all makes sense. They aren’t actually having to do any math here, so it frees them up to simply think about the process. ( These sorts are free ! See link at the end of my blog post.)

word problems activity

Then we work with these multi-step word problem cutouts . Each half-page word problem includes 4-5 steps to solve it. Students must cut out the steps and rearrange them into the correct order to fully explain how to solve each problem.

Foldables for Scaffolded Practice

Once I feel like students understand the basics of solving multi-step problems, we move on to some scaffolded practice using these handy little foldables that I created! (I have created ten pages of varying levels, and they are FREE for you to use with your students! Click the link at the end of the post to access the freebies.)

Each page is split in half. Students fold the paper in half, cut across the dotted lines on the right side, and fold the right flaps under. They always start with the left side, where they read the problem, following the CUBE steps (with a special place for the Examine step, because I think it is SO important), and then they open the flaps to reveal step-by-step how to solve the problem. The flaps give the student hints about what step they need to complete and sometimes how to do it. It serves as a scaffolded guide for solving these tricky word problems.

The purpose of the flaps is to guide students through the steps, but to also give them time to think about what the next steps are and then see if they are correct.

Now, the only tricky part about this is that students might solve problems differently (and possibly in a different order) and get the same answer and THAT IS OKAY. These are meant to be used as an introduction to multi-step problem solving only! There are so many ways you can let your students use them.

multi-step word problems

Once we have done several of these together, I let them start working on their own with task cards and our four square format I mentioned above. I have them glue task cards in their notebooks and work through each problem. Once they have done a few like this, I let them move on to working on them without the four square format.

Some students even like to create their own foldables (like those that I showed above) with the task cards!

Multi-Step Word Problems Template

You can purchase my Multi-Step Word Problem Task Cards HERE.

When kids are ready, we then move on to multi-part problems. Kids LOVE these, and they seem to really thrive on the challenge of not only having a multi-step problem, but also a multi-PART problem.

Mastering Multi-Part Math Problems

You can purchase my Multi-Part Task Cards HERE.

…and when your students are really ready for an even bigger challenge, it’s time to present to them… Math Detectives! This is a new spin on Error Analysis that requires students to really analyze solutions and see which solutions and problem solving steps are the most reasonable. Each card has a task on it (usually multi-step) and there are two different explanations for a solution. The students have to figure out which explanation is correct and then solve the problem. This is such a fun activity for my students! They love being detectives.

Math Detectives Task Cards

You can purchase Math Detectives HERE.

Well, there you have it! All of my ideas and resources for teaching students to love solving multi-step word problems! It doesn’t have to be (too) scary.

If you’d like to download the THIRTY pages worth of freebies featured above, please enter your email address below:

This freebie includes the two tasks mentioned above as well as anchor chart templates and printable posters.

Multi-Step Word Problems Lessons

Mary Montero

I’m so glad you are here. I’m a current gifted and talented teacher in a small town in Colorado, and I’ve been in education since 2009. My passion (other than my family and cookies) is for making teachers’ lives easier and classrooms more engaging.

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Wow this is amazing! Thank you for sharing! I'm not a classroom teacher, but I'm ready to tackle multi-step problems w/ my own kiddos now!

Thanks so much for this freebie!! I teach special education students and this is a different approach and I will definitely be using this in class.

My 5th graders are struggling with single step, and multi-step word problems. I am excited to try this resource!

I can’t wait to use your math problem solving packet.

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

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Math Word Problems: Examples and Solution Strategies

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Do you shudder every time you see a word problem on a test? If so, you may need extra practice - and a little coaching - to better understand how to tackle this type of problem. Read on to find practice word problems for fifth, sixth and seventh grade, as well as solutions, explanations and problem-solving strategies.

Why Do I Have to Solve Word Problems?

If you dislike math word problems, you're not alone. Many students find these problems challenging because they require application of math concepts to real-world situations. Word problems often force you to think about math operations in new ways and to use creative thinking, which may not be your strong suits.

Even though word problems can be hard, they are important for a number of reasons. First, these problems will appear on almost every standardized math test you take, including college entrance exams. Also, as you get older, you'll likely have to solve word problems as a part of your everyday life. For example, any time you have to figure out which sale item offers the best value, you'll be solving a word problem.

If you don't fully understand word problems, don't hesitate to ask your teacher for help. You can also practice at home on your own or with assistance from your parents.

Problems and Solutions by Grade

Matt and Jan order two pizzas. When they're finished eating, 1/4 of the first pizza remains, as well as 3/6 of the second pizza. How much pizza do they have left?

On a map, the scale is 250 feet = 1 inch. How many inches would be needed to represent 1,700 feet?

After not selling well for five months, an item is marked down by 15%. It initially sold for $22. How much does it cost now?

Other Articles You May Be Interested In

Math word problems can be confusing, but there are ways you can help your sixth grader understand them. Read on to learn more about how to best solve math word problems.

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A Game-Changing Practice Fuses Math and Literacy

A program that scaffolds math with reading and writing has a formerly struggling elementary school in the Bronx dramatically outperforming the state in math.

When Concourse Village Elementary School (CVES) opened in 2013 in the wake of the planned phaseout of P.S. 385, which the New York City Department of Education had tagged with a D, students were struggling academically.

“When we arrived, we found a major deficit across all content areas,” said incoming principal and school founder Alexa Sorden, who was particularly alarmed by the reading scores. “The first year was challenging because we were trying to come up with a plan and say, ‘OK, how are we going to make sure that all the children are reading on grade level so that they’re prepared?’”

Sorden, a former literacy specialist and teacher, felt that a strong foundation in reading and writing underpinned success across all content areas—and she made it the school’s mission to be literacy-first. Today, students employ collaborative literacy strategies to support science and social studies units, for example, and bring their narrative skills to bear while making predictions and inferences as they analyze artwork .

In mathematics, a subject area not traditionally associated with literacy, Concourse Village has developed an especially innovative model that reinforces both reading and computational skills. Students tackle tough mathematical word problems through two literacy strategies: a group reading exercise that relies on what Sorden calls “the power of repeated reading,” and a problem-solving procedure developed by Exemplars, Inc , along with the problems, that requires students to produce an organized body of written artifacts.   

Despite the statistics stacked against them—the school is situated in the poorest congressional district in the nation , and 96 percent of children at CVES are on free and reduced lunch, while 15 percent are homeless—students are now outperforming the averages in both New York State English and math exams by over 40 percent .

What are the details of the math program? We visited the school and spoke to Sorden and fourth-grade mathematics teacher Blair Pacheco at length, and we provide an outline and some video of the school’s practices below.

Translating Math Into Words, and Back Into Numbers

In math classes, CVES students approach challenging word problems by reading, annotating, and writing to tease out the meaning—breaking the problems down into smaller parts and using the power of storytelling and narrative to bolster their insights. Word problems are above grade level to ensure that students are stretching to master difficult concepts.

Before considering solutions to a problem, the students start small by trying to clarify what it is actually saying. Numbers and questions are stripped out, and the class uses a three-read protocol that fosters both group and individual learning: The teacher reads the problem, then the students read it, and then everyone reads it together.

“Sometimes when kids see numbers, they start to get confused,” said Pacheco. “If we take out those numbers for a brief moment, they’re reading it as a story and they’re getting that understanding. It’s no longer just about math.”

For example, in one of Pacheco’s classes, students read: “Jaci and Emma are playing a game on their computer where a player earns points.” Students relay the gist of the story back to the teacher, who writes it on the board for reference.

The word problem—now with numbers included, but still without the questions that ask students to perform calculations or mathematical comparisons—is then shown on the interactive whiteboard, and the students read it aloud and process the information together.

One student annotates the word problem on the board with input from the class—underlining important information, including numbers and key words. In the example from Pacheco’s class, students underline the repeated word round  to indicate that there will likely be several rounds of numbers that might require a comparison or a computation.

Based on the annotations, students then create a “What I Know” chart as a class. For example, Pacheco’s students agree on how many points each player made in each round.

Using the information they have already identified, students hypothesize about what questions might be asked. For example, Pacheco’s students might guess that the question would ask the total number of points for all rounds. Brainstorming possible questions requires students to call on prior knowledge about what they can do with the numbers—compare through greater or lesser than or equal signs, for example, or compute by adding or subtracting.

Finally, the actual question is revealed on the board—and the class reads the whole problem aloud.

From Group to Independent Problem-Solving

After rereading the above-grade-level problem as a class, each student receives a word problem printout differentiated based on their ability. Students work through a five-step problem-solving procedure based on the reading protocol they use as a class. They work independently, or in small groups if they need more support. A checklist of the steps guides them through the problem.

Students scaffold their understanding—and make it visible to themselves and their teachers—by underlining important words, circling the question the problem is asking, and then writing an “I Have To” statement that clarifies what the student must do to arrive at the answer. For example, a student might write, “I have to find out who made the most points in each round.”

Then each student devises a mathematical strategy to solve the problem. They might write, “I will use addition,” “I will multiply,” or “I will use the comparison strategy.”

Finally students solve the problem and double-check their work. They write their answer in a complete sentence, put a box around it, and label it “answer.” They write out an explanation of how they solved the problem using at least two math words, like multiply  and add , and then write a complete sentence making connections to previous math they have learned. They might comment on an observation they made, a pattern or rule they found, a different strategy they could have used, or a comparison they noticed. Writing their takeaways in words reinforces their prior knowledge and how it can be applied in new ways.

“We ask them to make their thinking visible,” says Sorden, explaining the rationale behind all the writing in her school’s math courses. “Create a plan. Make your thinking visible and clear on paper so that anyone that picks it up is able to make meaning about what you were trying to share. We want them to be able to communicate orally and in writing so that their ideas are clearly communicated with the world.”

The problem-solving procedure and math tasks that CVES uses were developed by Exemplars , a company that provides a library of rich performance tasks and professional development for K-12 schools.

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5th Grade Math Word Problems Worksheets

Math word problem worksheets for grade 5.

These worksheets present students with real world word problems that students can solve with grade 5 math concepts. 

We encourage students to think about the problems carefully by:

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Word problem strategies for teachers– problems with multiple solutions in k–6, by: jeff todd.

Whether you are teaching the youngest or oldest of the elementary school population, solving word problems with multiple solutions is a great way to get students thinking about numbers. After all, life is full of problems that can have more than one solution! In this article, we'll explore word problem strategies , engineering great classroom discussions, and how to create a word problem with multiple solutions for each grade level. Plus, I've created a free download that outlines math word problem examples for each grade level.

In this article, we'll explore word problem strategies, engineering great classroom discussions, and how to create a word problem with multiple solutions for each grade level.

Multiple Solution Word Problem Strategies

The benefits of word problems with multiple solutions.

One of the greatest ways to engage students in “true problem solving” is to give them math word problems with multiple solutions. This is possible at all grade levels and will help students with their problems solving ability. Students think it's fun and will even compete with each other to find new and different ways to come up with multiple solutions. An added benefit of word problems with multiple solutions is that they can be used in your heterogeneous classroom. It’s just that we have to adjust the content of the word problem to the level of the content that students are learning.

Multiple Solution Word Problem Strategies

The word problems--which are super easy to create after you see some models--are great for your heterogeneous classroom. Students of all levels can have access to the problems. Some students may only find one or two solutions, but other the students can continue to be engaged in solving word problems finding as many solutions as possible. This allows for a rich comparison of solutions and problem solving strategies. You can engineer great discussions where many students can compare and contrast their approach to solving the word problems.

Structuring Lessons Around Word Problems With Multiple Solutions

Structuring you lesson around some of these problems, or using them in math centers once students have become familiar with word problems strategies for these types of multiple-solution problems allows students to access many of the Standards for Mathematical Practice. For example:

Making sense of problems and persevering in solving them--ask students: Are you sure there aren’t other solutions? Can you think of other ways to solve this problem?

Attending to precision--as students learn aspects of the order of operations, they can become more precise about expressing their intentions using parentheses or explaining why 2 + 3 x 5 must be 17 and not 25

Making use of structure--as students come up with multiple solutions to problems, they can compare the underlying structure and how these problems are the same or different: is 2 + 3 = 3 + 2 for the youngest students to: is 2 x 4 + 1 = to 1 + 2 x 4 for older students.

I find that when we engage students in meaningful discussions about word problems with multiple solutions, their ownership of the process increases. They love comparing their answers to other student’s answers, discussing whether their answers are substantially the same or different, and why they might use one representation rather than another.

Abundant Numbers & Multiple Solution Word Problems

Abundant numbers are numbers whose proper divisors when added together are greater than the number itself. For example twelve is the first abundant number. It’s proper divisors are 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6. Summing the divisors, we get 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 6 = 16. Sixteen is greater than twelve, so twelve is an abundant number. Abundant numbers are very useful for posing word problems with multiple solutions as will be described below.

The abundant numbers less than 100 are: 12, 18, 20, 24, 30, 36, 40, 42, 48, 54, 56, 60, 66, 70, 72, 78, 80, 84, 88, 90 and 96. These numbers will be most useful starting in second grade when students begin developing the concepts of multiplication and division. Because abundant numbers have so many divisors, they lend themselves readily to multiple solutions. While second graders typically only solve array problems with numbers under 25, as students progress to higher grades, the larger abundant numbers can be used.

how-to-create-a-word-problem-math-word-problems-examples-grade-4-750px

How to Create A Word Problem With Multiple Solutions At Each Grade Level

Creating word problems for kindergarten and grade 1.

In Kindergarten and Grade 1, students are learning adding strategies. Multiple solution word problems such as: How many different pairs of numbers add up to nine (Kindergarten), or H ow many ways can you add three numbers to get 18 (first grade) are examples of open-ended questions that can engage students in deeper thinking and conversations about numbers. Some guidelines for developing these problems are:

  • In Kindergarten, student should be able to add number pairs up to 10
  • In Grade 1, students should be able to add number pairs up to 20
  • In Grade 1, students should able to add three number to form a sum

Use this download as a guide in your K or Grade 1 classroom. It has math word problem examples and guidelines for creating your own word problems.

Creating Word Problems for Grade 2

In Grade 2, students are setting the stage for learning multiplication by creating arrays using buttons, beans, or other objects. This is the first grade at which using abundant numbers, described above, can help you generate problems with multiple solutions. Ask students: How many different ways can you make an array with 18 buttons? Some guidelines for developing these problems are:

  • Grade two students should be able to create arrays of up to 25 buttons or other objects
  • The abundant numbers less than 25 are: 12, 18, 20, and 24. These numbers provide the greatest variety of solutions

Use this download as a guide in your Grade 2 classroom. It has math word problem examples and guidelines for creating your own word problems.

Creating Word Problems for Grade 3

In Grade 3, students are able to use multiple operations to create problems. Students are learning about which operations must be done first and may use parentheses to help remind them that multiplication is completed before addition or subtraction . You could ask a question like how many different numbers can you make with one, two and three using two operations? This is a great way to see students’ understandings about statements like 3 + 4 x 2, that it must be 11 and not 14 unless they group with parentheses--an advanced topic for students this age.

Use this download as a guide in your Grade 3 classroom. It has math word problem examples and guidelines for creating your own word problems. It shows how to create every number from zero to fifteen using the digits 1, 2, 3 and 4 using at least two operations.

Creating Word Problems for Grade 4

In Grade 4, students are responsible for knowing all of the factors pairs for numbers under 100. Using the abundant numbers described above, you students will be able to find lots and lots of factor pairs! They can practice their divisibility rules and discuss how they knew there were more factor pairs to find, or not. Besides the abundant numbers, you can also give them a prime number every once and a while to see how the prove that there are no other factors besides one and the number itself.

Use this download as a guide in your Grade 4 classroom. It has math word problem examples and guidelines for creating your own word problems. Plus, it has a list of all the factor pairs for the abundant numbers. Your students can do all the work and you have the answers!

Creating Word Problems for Grade 5 and Grade 6

In Grade 5, students are developing facility with expressions with multiple operations. They are starting to use parentheses to show grouping--especially when a situation requires addition to be done before multiplication such as (3 + 4) x 2. Similar to the third grade activity, students can create expressions using the four operations, but this time you give them an abundant number as a target. For instance, how many ways can you make 12 with the numbers 1, 2 ,3 and 4 using the four operations and parentheses.

In Grade 6, students are using exponents, so an activity similar to the Grade 5 activity described just above here is perfect--you can just include the use of exponents.

Use this download as a guide in your Grade 5 or Grade 6 classroom. It has math word problem examples and guidelines for creating your own word problems.

Summing It All Up

Solving word problems with multiple solutions has the potential to change the discourse of the classroom, enhance the quality of math lessons, help the development of students' creativity and critical thinking, and more. An added benefit of word problems with multiple solutions is that they can be used in your heterogeneous classroom. Some students may struggle to find one or two solutions, but other students will be kept busy find more as many solutions as they can, keeping all students engaged!

There are downloads for each grade level , including using abundant numbers starting in Grade 2 to create problems that tend to have more solutions. Download the grade level you are interested in for some ideas and you will be able to create even more problems on the fly for your students.

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

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  • Fun Math Activities

7 Activities to Help Your Child Master 5th Grade Math Word Problems

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Last Updated on May 31, 2022 by Thinkster

Fun and interactive activities are a great way to reinforce important math concepts. Whether your child is struggling or looking to practice more challenging concepts, try these ideas to help your child succeed and master fifth grade math word problems.

1. Draw Pictures

One reason many students have trouble with 5th grade math word problems is that they are not properly visualizing the problem . They don’t know what to do because they can’t picture what the problem is asking them to do.

You can help by encouraging your child to draw pictures. The picture does not have to be to scale or even fully accurate, but it can give your fifth grader a starting point to figure out the processes required to solve the problem. By visualizing the word problem, you can help your student better grasp what needs to be done.

To make this even more fun as an after-school activity, take it outside! Use your driveway and some sidewalk chalk for a fun way to visualize word problems.

2. Cook Together

To kids, cooking may seem unrelated to math, but it actually involves many math concepts, such as fractions, division, and multiplication.

Cook or bake with your child and create basic math word problems for them to solve.

math cooking

For instance, you can bake a batch of cookies and tell your child, “we are going to double this recipe.” Then, have him double each amount. Some problems may be easy to solve, such as two cups of flour becoming four, but others involving fractions are not as simple.

3. Home Improvement Projects

Many homes have plenty of house projects that need to be tackled. Finding the time, energy, and money to do so might be difficult, but that doesn’t mean your fifth-grader can’t help!

For example, if he wants to repaint his room, direct him to figure out the area of his walls, how much paint will be needed, how much that paint will cost, and how much estimated time the job will require.

He will be applying math skills to a real-world problem, which ultimately helps him with 5th grade word problems. Then, when you do get around to painting his room or any other planned projects, he will be more eager to help!

4. A Trip to the Store

Shopping at a retail or grocery store is a great way to have your child practice math.

Give your fifth grader a shopping list and a budget, then let her do the shopping while you push the cart.

math shopping

Be a little vague about how much of each item you need so that she must determine what she can afford. Allow for some wiggle room so she can buy a treat, but again, ask her to use her estimation skills to decide if she will have enough money for that treat.

If your fifth grader is advanced and eager for a challenge, you can also have her calculate sales tax on the purchase!

5. Party Planning

Kids love parties, and though you obviously can’t let them throw unlimited bashes, you can let them plan as many as they want!

Give your child a budget and challenge him or her to come up with a menu, party favors, and decorations that will keep them within their budget. For example, your fifth-grader may want to order specialty pizzas instead of just going to Pizza Hut —how will that decision affect what other food can be served and how many guests can ultimately be invited?

Your child will use essential math skills while discovering how challenging the task of planning a party can be.

6. Help Develop  Problem-Solving Plans

Another way to help kids think through word problems is to teach them to use a problem-solving plan. This is a four-step plan that can help them conquer word problems.

It involves:

1. Understanding the problem

2. Devising a plan

3. Carrying out the plan

4. Going back to check work

Students must first read and understand the problem, then create and carry out a plan.

The final step, checking their work, is crucial because it is what helps them determine if their answer and plan make sense. The more your child uses this process with 5th grade math word problems,  the better equipped  she will be.

To make this an activity, give your child some fun word problems and work through the four steps together.

7. Use Technology to Help Master Math Word Problems

If your kids are running to the tablet or computer after school, enroll in an engaging, tech-based tutoring program to help with word problems. With the right math learning program, your children can be motivated, engaged, and even entertained while learning and developing crucial math skills.

When shopping for a program, look for one that is personalized to your child’s level of learning. This ensures that your child gets the exact practice needed for fifth grade math word problems. Thinkster Math is a program created by teachers that personalizes instruction for each child .

Plus, it’s a fun and exciting way to reinforce math skills after school!

What activities have you tried with your fifth grader to help them with math word problems?

4 After School Activities to Master 5th Grade Math Word Problems

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3 Strategies to Conquer Math Word Problems

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Here’s a word problem for you:

Miss Friday’s class does a daily word problem. Ten of her students are great at word problems involving addition, and only 7 seem to understand subtraction word problems. Five of her students are bored with the easy problems. Thirteen students are still struggling with basic math facts and 3 have trouble reading the word problems at all. How many of her students are engaged and learning?

Here’s a better question: “How do you grow confident and effective problem solvers?”

Why Students Struggle with Math Word Problems

Students struggle with math word problems for many reasons, but three of the biggest I’ve encountered include:

Issue #1: Student Confidence For many students, just looking at a word problem leads to anxiety. No one can think clearly with a sense of dread or fear of failure looming!
Issue #2: Flexible Thinking Many kids are taught to solve word problems methodically, with a prescriptive step-by-step plan using key words that don’t always work. Plans are great, but not when students use them as a crutch rather than a tool. Today’s standardized tests and real-world applications require creative thinking and flexibility with strategies.
Issue #3: Differentiation Teachers want students to excel quickly and often push too fast, too soon. In the case of word problems, you have to go slow to go fast. Just like in Guided Reading, you’ll want to give lots of practice with “just-right” problems and provide guided practice with problems just-above the students’ level.

3 Problem Solving Strategies

The solution is to conquer math word problems with engaging classroom strategies that counteract the above issues!

1. Teach a Problem-Solving Routine 

Kids (and adults) are notoriously impulsive problem solvers. Many students see a word problem and want to immediately snatch out those numbers and “do something” with them. When I was in elementary school, this was actually a pretty reliable strategy! But today, kids are asked to solve much more complex problems, often with tricky wording or intentional distractors.

Grow flexible thinkers and build confidence by teaching a routine. A problem solving routine simply encourages students to slow down and think before and after solving. I’ve seen lots of effective routines but my favorites always include a “before, during, and after” mindset.

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

To make the problem solving routine meaningful and effective:

  • Use it often (daily if possible)
  • Incorporate “Turn & Teach” (Students orally explain their thinking and process to a partner.)
  • Allow for “Strategy Share” after solving (Selected students explain their method and thinking.)

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

2. Differentiate Word Problems 

No, this doesn’t mean to write a different word problem for every student! This can be as simple as adjusting the numbers in a problem or removing distractors for struggling students. Scaffolding word problems will grow confidence and improve problem solving skills by gradually increasing the level difficulty as the child is ready. This is especially effective when you are trying to teach students different structures of word problems to go with a certain operation.

For example, comparison subtraction problems are very challenging for some students. By starting with a simple version, you allow students to focus on the problem itself, rather than becoming intimidated or frustrated.

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

I’ve had great success in using scaffolded problems with my guided math groups. After solving the easier problem, students realize that it’s not that tricky and are ready to take on the tougher ones!

3. Compare Problems Side-by-Side 

To develop flexible thinking, nothing is more powerful than analyzing and comparing word problems. Start by using problems that have similar stories and numbers, but different problem structures. Encourage conversation, use visual representations, and have students explain the difference in structure and operation. Here’s an example showing student work on two similar problems about monkeys. Click here to download a blank copy of these problems. My freebie includes several variations to help you differentiate.

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Use these three strategies to get kids thinking and talking about their problem solving strategies while building that “oh-so-important” confidence, and you CAN conquer math word problems!

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Kady Dupre has worked as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and intervention teacher in elementary grades. She loves creating learning resources for students and teachers. She authors Teacher Trap , a blog aimed at sharing her challenges, successes, and insights as a teacher.

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Upper Elementary Teaching Blog

February 15, 2022 | 1 Comment | Filed Under: Math , Word Problems

Free Word Problems for Math Intervention Activities

Is it a challenge for your students to break down word problems? Do they struggle with identifying the operation, solving the problem, justifying their answer, or all of the above? This can definitely be a challenge for your students and you when this happens (and it seems to happen every year). This post will share some strategies for teaching word problems and a set of free word problems that are perfect for math intervention activities and remediation.

Do your students struggle with word problems? Grab free intervention word problems for grades 3-5 on this post!

Strategies for Word Problem Math Intervention

Here are some of the strategies and activities that I use to support my students with word problems:

  • Introduce new math problems with a context in the form of a relatable word problem
  • Expose my students to a variety of word problems regularly and consistently > The free set of word problems will help with this.
  • Model my thinking when reading and solving word problems
  • Provide my students with a step-by-step way to work through understanding and solving a word problem > T he free set of word problems will help with this.
  • Get hands-on…use hands-on sorts and moveable digital activities to have my students interact with word problems > The free set of word problems will help with this.
  • Teach situations and contexts and not key words when it comes to determining the operation needed. Click here to read a post about using situations and not relying on key words to solve word problems.
  • Allow for opportunities for students to share and discuss word problem solving strategies

Now, let’s take a look at the free set of word problems that will give you some free math intervention activities to help your students master word problems.

About the Free Word Problems

This set of free word problems includes two different math intervention activities that focus on word problems.

  • The first set of word problems help students conquer word problems by helping them break down the problem and organize their plan for solving.
  • The second set of word problems is a sort where students sort word problems according to the operation needed to solve them.

The free word problems focus on basic multiplication and division math facts.

This will allow you to focus on teaching your students the strategy of breaking down a word problem (with the help of a graphic organizer) without being bogged down by difficult math concepts.

Math Intervention Word Problems – Graphic Organizer Activity

The first set of word problems includes 10 multiplication and division word problems with a graphic organizer. The organizer helps students break down the steps of solving the word problem.

The graphic organizer for each problem asks the students to:

  • Retell the problem
  • Select the operation and reason for selecting that operation
  • Solve the problem
  • Defend why the answer makes sense
  • Prove the answer

I have also included the word problems in a copy friendly version with 8 word problems on a page and blank templates of the graphic organizer. You can use laminated copies of the blank template and have students write on them with dry erase markers. This makes it super easy to use during stations and guided math groups.

Note: It can be time-consuming to complete all parts of the graphic organizer each time if used regularly. Feel free to have students only complete specific sections as needed. You could even start with just having them retell the problem, select the operation, and then solve the problem. Then you can move to the other sections later on. Alternatively, you can skip the retelling and focus on the defending and proving sections.

Math Intervention Word Problems – Sort Activity

Word problems are a difficult math skill to make hands-on but anytime I can make something hands-on, the better my students do.

The second set of word problems included in this free resource are for a sort activity where the students sort six word problems by operation (multiplication or division).

You can use this to focus just on understanding the problems and determining the operation or you can take it a step further and have the students solve the problems after sorting.

Do your students struggle with word problems? Grab free intervention word problems for grades 3-5 on this post!

Digital Versions

If you want to assign this as a digital math activity, both sets of word problems (the 10 graphic organizer word problems and the word problem sorts) are included in digital format on Google Slides.

For the graphic organizer word problems, students will complete their responses in the provided text boxes on each slide and then drag and drop the operation needed to solve the problem.

Free intervention word problems for grades 3-5! Use these printable AND digital word problems to help your students find success with word problems.

For the word problem sorts, students will drag and drop the problems to columns labeled “multiplication” or “division” to sort by operation.

Free multiplication and division word problem sort for grades 3-5! Perfect for word problem intervention activities!

Get the FREE Word Problems Here!

In the download, you will find a PDF containing the printable version. Digital access links are on page #4 of the PDF.  To get this free Word Problem Intervention resource, simply enter your email address in the box below.  You’ll be subscribed to a special 4-day email sequence where you’ll receive the free intervention word problems, word problems organizer mats, tips for teaching word problems, and more!

For a detailed step-by-step guide to assigning Google Slides, click here.

Do your students struggle with word problems? Grab free intervention word problems for grades 3-5 on this post!

Want more math word problem resources for 4-5 grades?

If these word problem activities are helpful to your students and you want more to use throughout the year for a variety of math skills and operations, including decimals and fractions, check out the full grade level bundles below!

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4th Grade Word Problem Intervention Activities

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5th Grade Word Problem Intervention Activities

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strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

Welcome friends! I’m Jennifer Findley: a teacher, mother, and avid reader. I believe that with the right resources, mindset, and strategies, all students can achieve at high levels and learn to love learning. My goal is to provide resources and strategies to inspire you and help make this belief a reality for your students. Learn more about me.

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5 Effective Strategies to Solve Math Word Problems for Kids

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Author: BYJU’S Math Companion Tutor

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5 Effective Ways to Solve Math Word Problems for Kids

Practice restating the problem.

  • Addition keywords: “add(ed) to,” “all together,” “combine” 
  • Subtraction keywords: “fewer than,” “remaining,” “take away” 
  • Multiplication keywords: “times,” “every,” “triple” 
  • Division keywords: “per,” “each”

Visualize or Model the Problem

  • Encourage your little one to imagine themselves in Sarah’s situation. 
  • Ask them to picture themselves in a kitchen surrounded by ingredients and baking tools. 
  • Use physical objects or drawings to represent the ingredients and quantities. 
  • Create a simple diagram or picture to represent the overall baking process. For instance, draw three separate sections, each representing one type of cookie.

Remove the Numbers

  • To focus first on recognizing the issue 
  • The connections between various components
  • Then start the calculations.

Try the CUBES Method

Share feedback and reflection.

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  • H. Boonen, A. J., & Jolles, J. (n.d.). COMPREHENSION and VISUALIZATION -Teaching Students to Solve Word Problems | Open Access Journals . COMPREHENSION and VISUALIZATION -Teaching Students to Solve Word Problems | Open Access Journals. https://www.rroij.com/open-access/comprehension–visualization-teaching-students-to-solve-word-problems.php?aid=62476  
  • Lian Wan, C. T., & Abdullah, N. A. (2023, January 2). Using CUBES strategy in a remote setting for primary mathematics word problems | Teo Lian Wan | Jurnal Elemen . Using CUBES Strategy in a Remote Setting for Primary Mathematics Word Problems | Teo Lian Wan | Jurnal Elemen. https://doi.org/10.29408/jel.v9i1.6864  

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" class="arrow-title-img"> 5th grade math word problems worksheets PDF – Fun Strategies for solving word problems 5th Grade worksheets

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How to help 5th graders understand math concepts - 5th grade math word problems worksheets PDF

Get more contents on fifth grade..., multi step word problems 5th grade worksheets.

A great way to enhance your kid’s flexibility and confidence in solving grade 5 math concepts in and out of the math class is by designing 5th grade math word problems worksheets PDF . To illustrate this however, we have formulated fun strategies for solving word problems 5 th grade , helpful for kids to easily understand vital grade 5 math facts, concepts and patterns.

However, our endeavor to help kids develop critical thinking skills has been to design multi step word problems 5th grade worksheets . Here, we intend for kids to a have a daily challenge with our fun amazing real life math situations.

Most importantly, the idea of using more than one math operation to solve a problem is an awesome way to make kids learn how to solve math in a step by step process, giving ample time for them to practice at their own pace.

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Fractions of whole numbers

Fractions of whole numbers worksheet

Fractions of a number

Fractions of a number worksheet

add and subtract fractions with like denominators

add and subtract fractions with like denominators worksheet

Scaling whole numbers by fractions

Scaling whole numbers by fractions worksheet

Fractions review

Fractions review worksheet

Fractions of whole word problems

Fractions of whole word problems worksheet

Fractions of a group word problems

Fractions of a group word problems worksheet

Equivalent fractions review

Equivalent fractions review worksheet

Write fractions in lowest terms

Write fractions in lowest terms worksheet

Convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers

Convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers worksheet

Least common denominator

Least common denominator worksheet

Graph and compare fractions on number lines

Graph and compare fractions on number lines worksheet

Compare fractions using benchmarks

Compare fractions using benchmarks worksheet

Compare fractions and mixed numbers

Compare fractions and mixed numbers worksheet

Put fractions in order

Put fractions in order worksheet

Arithmetic sequences with fractions

Arithmetic sequences with fractions worksheet

Geometric sequences with fractions

Geometric sequences with fractions worksheet

Round mixed numbers

Round mixed numbers worksheet

Reciprocals

Reciprocals worksheet

Understand fractions as division word problems

Understand fractions as division word problems worksheet

Decompose fractions multiple ways

Decompose fractions multiple ways worksheet

Add and subtract fractions with like denominators using number lines

Add and subtract fractions with like denominators using number lines worksheet

Add and subtract fractions with same denominator

Add and subtract fractions with same denominator worksheet

Add and subtract fractions with same denominator wordproblems

Add and subtract fractions with same denominator wordproblems worksheet

Add and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators

Add and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators worksheet

Add and subtract mixed numbers with unlike denominators

Add and subtract mixed numbers with unlike denominators worksheet

Add up to 4 fractions with denominators of 10 and 100

Add up to 4 fractions with denominators of 10 and 100 worksheet

Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators

Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators worksheet

Estimate sums and differences of fractions using benchmarks

Estimate sums and differences of fractions using benchmarks worksheet

Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators word problems

Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators word problems worksheet

  • Adding and subtracting decimals word problems
  • Adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators word problems
  • Adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators word problems
  • Adding subtracting multiplying and dividing decimals word problems
  • Adding subtracting multiplying and dividing fractions word problems

Download 5th-grade worksheets by topic

Available here is an extraordinary resource with outstanding tips on how to help 5th graders understand math concepts - 5th grade math word problems worksheets PDF .

It is interesting to realize that our worksheets consist of all word problems in the grade 5 math curriculum. Hence, your kids should be assured to grasp all math word problem skills they need as they continue to have a daily practice with our grade 5 word problems worksheets.

Also, these worksheets are not only short, but have been equally enriched with very interesting real life stories wherein your kids will always feel excited while solving.

strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

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Multi-Step Word Problems 5th Grade Worksheets

Multi-step word problems 5th grade worksheets help students in understanding how to solve word problems in a step-by-step process. Each problem is different and requires multiple steps in reaching the solution. These worksheets help students in practicing problems to understand each step used.

Benefits of 5th Grade Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheets

Multi-step word problems 5th grade worksheets follow a stepwise mechanism which makes it easier for students to approach a problem and gives them time to solve problems at their own pace. These 5th grade math worksheets have visual simulations that help students see things in action. Also, these worksheets come along with an answer key showcasing detailed step-by-step solutions to all the practice questions that in return help students in understanding the concept better.

Printable PDFs for Grade 5 Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheets

Multi-step word problems worksheets for grade 5 are simple and easy to work with, students can download the PDF format of these worksheets to practice at their own pace.

  • Math 5th Grade Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheet
  • Grade 5 Math Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheet
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  • Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheet for 5th Grade

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1. Phonics Instruction

2. graphic organizers, 3. think-pair-share, 4. vocabulary instruction, 5. story mapping, 6. kwl charts (know, want to know, learned), 7. interactive read-alouds, 8. guided reading, 9. writing workshops, 10. literature circles.

Today, literacy is not just about learning to read and write ; it’s a crucial tool that opens doors to a world of knowledge and opportunities. It’s the foundation upon which we build our ability to communicate, understand, and interact with the world around us. It is the cornerstone that supports all other learning.

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But how do we ensure every student learns to read and write, loves the process, and excels in it? This is where literacy strategies for teachers come into play. 

In the modern classroom, literacy strategies are essential for several reasons. They help cater to diverse learning styles , engage students more effectively, and promote a deeper understanding of the material.

These strategies are vital in an era of abundant information and attention spans are challenged. They equip teachers with innovative methods to make reading and writing more interactive and meaningful. 

In this blog, we will talk about some of the best literacy strategies that can make a significant difference in your classroom!

Literacy Strategy Definition

Literacy strategies are various methods and approaches used in teaching reading and writing. These are not just standard teaching practices but innovative, interactive, and tailored techniques designed to improve literacy skills. They include activities like group discussions, interactive games , and creative writing exercises, all part of a broader set of literacy instruction strategies.

The Role of Literacy Strategies in Enhancing Reading and Writing Skills

Teaching literacy strategies enhance students’ reading and writing skills. These strategies help break down complex texts, making them more understandable and relatable for students. They encourage students to think critically about what they read and express their thoughts clearly in writing. Teachers can use literacy strategies to address different learning styles, helping students find their path to literacy success.

15 Best Literacy Strategies for Teachers

Phonics instruction is fundamental in building foundational reading skills , especially for young learners. This method teaches students the relationships between letters and sounds , helping them decode words. Through phonics, students learn to sound out words, which is crucial for reading fluency and comprehension. Phonics instruction can be made fun and interactive with games, songs, and puzzles .

You can begin here:

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Graphic organizers are powerful visual tools that aid in better comprehension and organization of information. As part of literacy practice examples, they help students visually map out ideas and relationships between concepts. This can include charts, diagrams, or concept maps. Using graphic organizers, teachers can help students structure their thoughts, making complex ideas more accessible and understandable. It’s an effective way to break down reading materials or organize writing drafts visually.

Think Pair Share worksheet

Think-pair-share is an essential literacy strategy that fosters collaborative learning. In this activity, students first think about a question or topic individually, then pair up with a classmate to discuss their thoughts, and finally share their ideas with the larger group. This strategy encourages active participation and communication, allowing students to learn from each other. It’s a simple yet powerful way to engage students in critical thinking and discussion.

Vocabulary instruction is crucial in expanding language comprehension. This strategy involves teaching students new words and phrases in terms of their definitions, context, and usage. Effective vocabulary instruction can include word mapping , sentence creation , and word games. By enriching students’ vocabulary , teachers equip them with the tools to understand and articulate ideas more effectively, enhancing their overall literacy.

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Story mapping is a technique where students break down the narrative elements of a story, such as characters, setting, plot, and conflict. This strategy helps in enhancing comprehension and analytical skills. By visually organizing the elements of a story, students can better understand the structure and themes of the text. It’s an engaging way to dissect stories and can be done individually or as a group activity .

A KWL chart

KWL charts are an effective tool for structuring learning objectives. This strategy involves creating a chart with three columns: What students already Know, What they Want to know, and What they have Learned. This approach helps activate prior knowledge, set learning goals , and reflect on new information. It’s a great way to engage students in the learning process from start to finish, making them active participants in their education. KWL Charts can be used across various subjects, making them versatile and essential in the classroom.

Kids in a classroom

Interactive read-alouds are a cornerstone among literacy instructional strategies. In this activity, the teacher reads a story aloud, using expressive tones and gestures to bring the story to life. This method engages students in dynamic storytelling , sparking their imagination and interest. It’s an essential literacy strategy that enhances listening skills, vocabulary, and comprehension. Teachers can pause to ask questions, encouraging students to think and predict, making it an interactive and inclusive learning experience.

kids in guided reading session

Guided reading is a tailored approach that addresses the diverse reading levels within a classroom. In this strategy, teachers work with small groups of students, providing focused reading instruction at their specific level of development. This allows for more personalized attention and support, helping students progress at their own pace.

Kids in a writing workshop

Writing workshops are a dynamic way to foster creative expression among students. These workshops provide a platform for students to write , share, and receive feedback on their work. It’s an interactive process where students learn to develop their writing style, voice, and technique. Writing Workshops encourage creativity, critical thinking, and peer collaboration, making them a vital part of literacy development.

Depiction of collaborative learning

Literature circles are a collaborative and student-centered approach to reading and discussing books. In these circles, small groups of students choose and read a book together, then meet to discuss it, often taking on different roles like discussion leader or summarizer. This strategy promotes discussion, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of literature. It’s an engaging way for students to explore texts and share their perspectives, enhancing their analytical and communication skills.

11. Scaffolding

Scaffolding technique

Scaffolding is a teaching method that provides students with step-by-step guidance to help them better understand new concepts. This approach breaks down learning into manageable chunks, gradually moving students towards stronger comprehension and greater independence. Scaffolding can include techniques like asking leading questions, providing examples, or offering partial solutions. It’s especially effective in building confidence and skill in students, as they feel supported throughout their learning journey.

12. Word Walls

A word board

Word walls are a visual and interactive way to display vocabulary in the classroom . As one of the essential literacy strategy examples, they help students learn new words and reinforce their spelling and meaning. Teachers can add words related to current lessons or themes, encouraging students to use and explore these words in their writing and speaking. Word walls are educational and serve as a reference tool that students can continually interact with.

13. Reader’s Theater

Kids in a readers theatre

Reader’s theater is an engaging literacy activity that combines reading and performance. In this strategy, students read scripts aloud, focusing on expression rather than memorization or props. This method helps improve reading fluency, comprehension, and confidence as students practice reading with emotion and emphasis. Reader’s Theater is also a fun way to bring literature to life and encourage a love for reading and storytelling.

14. Dramatization of Text

Kids dramatizing text

Dramatization of text involves bringing stories and texts to life through acting and role-play. This strategy allows students to interpret and enact narratives, deepening their understanding of the characters, plot, and themes. It’s an interactive way to engage students with literature, encouraging them to explore texts creatively and collaboratively. Dramatization can enhance comprehension, empathy, and public speaking skills.

15. Inquiry-Based Learning

Inquiry based learning wallpaper

Inquiry-Based Learning is a student-centered approach that promotes curiosity-driven research and exploration. In this method, learning starts with questions, problems, or scenarios rather than simply presenting facts. Students are encouraged to investigate topics, ask questions , and discover answers through research and discussion. This strategy fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning .

These literacy strategies for teachers offer a diverse and dynamic toolkit for teachers to enhance reading, writing, and comprehension skills in their classrooms. By incorporating these methods, educators can create a more engaging, inclusive, and effective learning environment , paving the way for students to become confident and proficient learners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the key benefits of using literacy strategies in the classroom.

Literacy strategies enhance classroom engagement, improve comprehension, and foster critical thinking skills. They make learning more interactive and meaningful, helping students to connect with the material more deeply.

How can teachers effectively integrate literacy strategies into existing curricula?

Teachers can integrate literacy strategies by aligning them with current lesson objectives, using them as complementary tools for existing content. Start small, incorporate strategies gradually, and tailor them to fit the lesson’s context.

Are these literacy strategies suitable for all age groups?

Yes, these strategies can be adapted for different age groups and learning levels. The key is to modify the complexity and delivery of the strategy to suit the developmental stage and abilities of the students.

How do digital literacy strategies for teachers differ from traditional ones?

Digital literacy strategies incorporate technology, focusing on skills like navigating online information, digital communication, and critical evaluation of online content, which are essential in the digital age.

Can literacy strategies be used in subjects other than language arts?

Absolutely, literacy strategies can be applied cross-curricularly. For example, graphic organizers can be used in science for hypothesis mapping, or story mapping can be used in history to outline events.

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  1. Strategies for Solving Word Problems

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  3. Strategies for Solving Word Problems

    strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

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  5. Problem Solving Strategies for Math Poster by TeachPlanLove

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  6. 5th Grade Volume Problem Solving Task Cards

    strategies for solving word problems 5th grade

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  1. PRE- CALCULUS: SOLVING WORD PROBLEMS IN TRIGONOMETRY

  2. 3 Reads Strategy Solving Word Problems + &

  3. Grade [X] Word Problems Mastery: Unlocking the Secrets to Mathematical Success!

  4. word problem:: #maths #study #pakistan

  5. Solving Word problems with Maths

  6. Tips for solving math word problems

COMMENTS

  1. Strategies for Solving Word Problems

    1. Read the Entire Word Problem Before students look for keywords and try to figure out what to do, they need to slow down a bit and read the whole word problem once (and even better, twice). This helps kids get the bigger picture to be able to understand it a little better too. 2. Think About the Word Problem

  2. How to Teach Word Problems: Strategies for Elementary Teachers

    Students must apply their critical thinking skills to determine how to solve the problem. Word problems give students the opportunity to practice turning situations into numbers. This is critical as students progress in their education, as well as in their day-to-day life.

  3. 14 Effective Ways to Help Your Students Conquer Math Word Problems

    1. Solve word problems regularly This might be the most important tip of all. Word problems should be part of everyday math practice, especially for older kids. Whenever possible, use word problems every time you teach a new math skill. Even better: give students a daily word problem to solve so they'll get comfortable with the process.

  4. How to Help Students Who Struggle with Word Problems

    The test makers are hip to the whole key word thing. So while key words may have worked 20 years ago, today's tests are specifically written to outsmart that approach. 2. Pre-Formulating Word Problems. For students to be effective in solving word problems, they need to master the art of formulation.

  5. A Strategy for Teaching Math Word Problems

    First we remove all of the numbers and have students read the problem focusing on who or what the problem is about; they visualize and connect the scenario to their lives and experiences. Next we have our students rewrite the question as a statement to ensure that they understand the questions.

  6. 4 Math Word Problem Solving Strategies

    5 Strategies to Learn to Solve Math Word Problems A critical step in math fluency is the ability to solve math word problems. The funny thing about solving math word problems is that it isn't just about math. Students need to have strong reading skills as well as the growth mindset needed for problem-solving.

  7. Multi-Step Word Problems Mastery

    The Single-Step Format The sample problem I used in this anchor chart is a SINGLE-STEP problem, and I would highly encourage you to teach this format using a single-step format, then move on later to using it for multi-step (hang tight! I will address using this format with multi-step problems soon!).

  8. Math Word Problems

    You should begin by making the two fractions equivalent. The denominator for both fractions should be 24 because 6 x 4 = 24. Multiply 1/4 x 6/6, which equals 6/24, and 3/6 x 4/4, which equals 12/24. Then, add the equivalent fractions: 6/24 + 12/24 = 18/24. Don't forget to simplify your answer; in this case, you should divide both the numerator ...

  9. Using Literacy Skills to Solve Math Word Problems

    Student Work. A completed 5th-grade math word problem. pdf 273.47 KB. Finally students solve the problem and double-check their work. They write their answer in a complete sentence, put a box around it, and label it "answer.". They write out an explanation of how they solved the problem using at least two math words, like multiply and add ...

  10. Helping Your Child Master 5th Grade Math Word Problems

    Identify the Numbers. First, ask your fifth-grader to extract the numbers from the math problem. Encourage him or her to write these numbers out separately or even draw them if it helps. With the sample problem, we get: She sells 50 tacos a day. Tacos are $1 each. She sells 30 burritos a day. Burritos are $2 each.

  11. 5th Grade Math Word Problems Worksheets

    Math Grade 5 Word problems 5th Grade Math Word Problems Worksheets Math word problem worksheets for grade 5 These worksheets present students with real world word problems that students can solve with grade 5 math concepts. We encourage students to think about the problems carefully by: providing a number of mixed word problem worksheets

  12. Word Problem Strategies for Teachers- Problems with ...

    Engage students in "true problem solving" with math word problems with multiple solutions. In this article, explore word problem strategies and how to create a word problem with multiple solutions for each grade level. FREE download that outlines math word problem examples for each grade level.

  13. How to Teach Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

    Below are five math problem-solving strategies to use when teaching word problems on addition and subtraction using any resource. So, how do I teach word problems? It's quite complex, but so much fun, once you get into it. Table of Contents How to Teach Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

  14. 7 Activities to Master 5th Grade Math Word Problems

    Another way to help kids think through word problems is to teach them to use a problem-solving plan. This is a four-step plan that can help them conquer word problems. It involves: 1. Understanding the problem. 2. Devising a plan. 3. Carrying out the plan.

  15. 3 Strategies to Conquer Math Word Problems

    Issue #1: Student Confidence For many students, just looking at a word problem leads to anxiety. No one can think clearly with a sense of dread or fear of failure looming! Issue #2: Flexible Thinking Many kids are taught to solve word problems methodically, with a prescriptive step-by-step plan using key words that don't always work.

  16. Free Word Problems for Math Intervention Activities

    Solve the problem Defend why the answer makes sense Prove the answer I have also included the word problems in a copy friendly version with 8 word problems on a page and blank templates of the graphic organizer. You can use laminated copies of the blank template and have students write on them with dry erase markers.

  17. 10 Best Strategies for Solving Math Word Problems

    1. Understand the Problem by Paraphrasing 2. Identify Key Information and Variables 3. Translate Words into Mathematical Symbols 4. Break Down the Problem into Manageable Parts 5. Draw Diagrams or Visual Representations 6. Use Estimation to Predict Answers 7. Apply Logical Reasoning for Unknown Variables 8. Leverage Similar Problems as Templates 9.

  18. Word Problems Lesson Plans for 5th Graders

    View all 4 lesson plans Multiplication and Division Word Problems Multiplication & Division Relationship Explore the connection between multiplication and division in this engaging math lesson. Discover how these two operations are related and learn strategies for solving problems using their connection. 3 4 5 VIEW DETAILS

  19. 5 Strategies to Teach Multi-Step Word Problems: Teacher's Guide

    Strategies to Teach Multi-Step Word Problems. Now, let's delve into the 5 strategies that teachers can employ to effectively teach multi-step word problem-solving to their students. Model the Problem-Solving Process. Provide Clear Problem-Solving Strategies. Provide Scaffolded Practice.

  20. Best Strategies to Solve Math Word Problems l Introduction To ...

    Once you've finished school, most of the math problems you encounter will likely come in the form of word problems. In word problems, you're not told explici...

  21. 5 Effective Strategies to Solve Math Word Problems for Kids

    Nov 10, 2023 Author: BYJU'S Math Companion Tutor Math word problems can often seem intimidating and confusing for kids. The complexity of the language used, and the presence of unnecessary information can easily throw them off track.

  22. 5th grade math word problems worksheets PDF

    Multi step word problems 5th grade worksheets. A great way to enhance your kid's flexibility and confidence in solving grade 5 math concepts in and out of the math class is by designing 5th grade math word problems worksheets PDF. To illustrate this however, we have formulated fun strategies for solving word problems 5th grade, helpful for ...

  23. Multi-Step Word Problems 5th Grade Worksheets

    Printable PDFs for Grade 5 Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheets. Multi-step word problems worksheets for grade 5 are simple and easy to work with, students can download the PDF format of these worksheets to practice at their own pace. Math 5th Grade Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheet. Grade 5 Math Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheet.

  24. Solving Real World Math Word Problems! (Multiplication and ...

    In this high quality math class, students will gain knowledge, understanding and tools to apply multiple strategies to evaluate math word problems. Students will gain skills to support the conceptual, procedural and application. Students will focus on evaluating one step and multistep word problems.

  25. 15 Best Literacy Strategies for Teachers to Use in Classroom

    In this method, learning starts with questions, problems, or scenarios rather than simply presenting facts. Students are encouraged to investigate topics, ask questions, and discover answers through research and discussion. This strategy fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning.