word problems
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Systems Word Problems Scaffolded
Word problems are challenging for many students. Writing a system of equations to model a word problem has unique challenges. This post provides details about a scaffolded handout with color coding can unpack the process for generating the appropriate system of equations. Unpacking the Word Problem A mistake I have witnessed over the years is…
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1 Step Word Problems Addition and Subtraction – Scaffolded
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Change Word Problems – Scaffolded
The Jamboard incorporates scaffolded handouts. The compare problems has two separate scaffolded sections. The first is to unpack the concepts of difference and compare, followed by writing a math sentence. Here is an introductory Jamboard to help students visualize and conceptualize change situations. Here is a video you can show to help students see movement…
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Multi-step Word Problems – Create Groups of Items
Here is a Google Slides file as a follow up to the Multiplication Word Problems Matching and Creating Groups post. Each slide has a multi-step word problem (multiplication and either addition or subtraction) that continues the use of the grouping approach. The boxes (for groups) and dots (for items) and dynamic and can be copied…
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CCSS MATH Coherence Map – 3rd Grade Groups of Objects to HS Slope
A hidden treasure is the Common Core of State Standards Math Coherence Map. It is an interactive flow chart that shows connections between the various standards. If you are teaching math, you can see the connections between what you are teaching, what was taught previously, and how you are preparing students for their future math…
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CCSS MATH Coherence Map – 3rd Grade Groups of Objects to HS Slope
A hidden treasure is the Common Core of State Standards Math Coherence Map. It is an interactive flow chart that shows connections between the various standards. If you are teaching math, you can see the connections between what you are teaching, what was taught previously, and how you are preparing students for their future math…
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Multiplication Problems as Intro to Unit Rates and Slope (follow up)
I previously related elementary school word problems with math topics in secondary schools. The photo below shows a method to help elementary school students unpack the multiplication problem, to help middle school students identify the unit rate, and to help algebra students identify slope (you can focus on simple problems like this as an entry…
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Slippery Slope – 3rd Grade Multiplication Word Problems to Slope in Algebra
Top left is a scaffolding I use to help students learn to solve math problems using multiplication (3rd grade). The situations are typically rate problems (e.g., 5 pumpkins per plant or $2 per slice of pizza) although the term “rate” is not used yet. The same concept of rate plays out in high school with…
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Evaluating the Effectiveness of Math Objectives
The math objectives present in the photos on this post were written for former students of mine. These types of objectives are ineffective and ubiquitous. When I have sat in IEP meetings the majority of the time I am the only person who is capable of evaluating IEP math objectives. This post provides some guidance…
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A Meaning Making Approach to Word Problems
Here is a typical story or word problem. Dakota helped her father bake cookies. They baked 9 sugar cookies and 3 chocolate chip cookies. How many cookies did they bake total? When solving word problem the focus is often on following steps, e.g. read the problem and identify important information. There is also a focus…