Word Problems

Third grade mathematicians are working hard to improve their problem solving skills in math. We have learned several strategies to help us.

1. Read the problem carefully. It is often helpful to read one sentence, and stop to think about what that sentence means before reading on. Third graders are encouraged to do this for each sentence to help them better understand the problem.

For example, if the problem says:

There are 5 students in Mr. Parker’s art class. He would like to give each of his students  6 stickers to use in a project they are doing.

I am going to stop and think about what the sentence means. After thinking, I realize that this sentence gives me enough information so I can figure out how many stickers Mr. Parker needs.
(5 x 6= 30)

2. Be sure to answer the question being asked. Some questions ask for numbers, but other questions ask for months, or times. Still other questions might ask for  yes or no.

For example, if the question asks:

Does Mr. Parker have enough stickers for everyone?

I know I need to answer yes or no. 

3. Finally, third graders should label their answers.

For example, if the question asks:

If not, how many more stickers does Mr. Parker need?

My answer needs to include the word stickers - 18 stickers.

Please remind your third grade mathematicians of these strategies when they are working on word problems at home.