The 5 steps in solving word problems in math are: 1) Read the problem carefully, 2) Identify the knowns and unknowns, 3) Choose an appropriate strategy to solve the problem, 4) Solve for the unknown, and 5) Check the answer for accuracy and reasonableness.
Continue reading for more information
When it comes to solving word problems in math, there are certain steps that must be followed to ensure that the correct answer is obtained. Below are the 5 steps in solving word problems in detail:
1) Read the problem carefully: Before anything else, it is important to read the problem carefully to fully understand what is being asked. One must pay attention to details, such as the units used and any key words that may help point towards the solution. “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” – Joseph Addison
2) Identify the knowns and unknowns: In order to solve the problem, it is important to identify what is already known and what is yet to be determined. This will help to select the appropriate strategy for solving the problem and working towards the answer. “The most important thing in solving a problem is to find the right starting point.” – Stefan H. Thomke
3) Choose an appropriate strategy to solve the problem: There are various strategies that can be used to solve word problems, such as drawing diagrams, using equations, or creating tables. One must choose the most appropriate strategy based on the problem at hand. “If you can’t solve a problem, then there is an easier problem you can solve: find it.” – George Pólya
4) Solve for the unknown: With the chosen strategy in mind, one can then begin to work through the problem and solve for the unknown. It is important to show all workings to ensure that the answer can be checked later. “Mathematics is not about numbers, equations, computations, or algorithms: it is about understanding.” – William Paul Thurston
5) Check the answer for accuracy and reasonableness: Once an answer has been obtained, it is important to check it for accuracy and reasonableness. This can be done by using estimation or by plugging the answer back into the original problem to see if it works. “An answer isn’t all that different from just a guess, unless it’s accompanied by the steps that led up to it.” – Hank Green
Table of Common Strategies for Solving Word Problems:
Strategy | Description |
---|---|
Drawing Diagrams | Using visual aids such as graphs or pictures to help solve the problem |
Creating Equations | Writing out equations that model the situation described in the problem |
Using Tables | Creating a table to organize and analyze the information provided |
Working Backwards | Starting with the answer and working backwards to determine the steps needed to reach that answer |
Estimation | Using rough approximations to check the reasonableness of an answer |
Overall, following these 5 steps and utilizing common strategies can help solve word problems in math effectively. Remember, practice makes perfect!
See the answer to your question in this video
The video outlines a five-step process for solving word problems in math: identifying what is being asked, strategizing a solution, writing the problem down, solving it, and checking the work. The speaker provides an example problem to demonstrate how to check work by doing a reverse calculation. The viewer is reminded to follow these steps when working on word problems.
See more answer options
Five Easy Steps to Solving Word Problems (WASSP)
- Write (or draw) what you know.
- Ask the question.
- Set up a math problem that could answer the question.
- Solve the math problem to get an answer.
- Put the answer in a sentence to see if the answer makes sense!
Five Easy Steps to Solving Word Problems (WASSP)
- 1. Write (or draw) what you know. It is important to convince students that they do not have to immediately know what math operation is required to solve the problem.
- 2. Ask the question.
5 Steps to Word Problem Solving Identify the Problem. Begin by determining the scenario the problem wants you to solve. This might come as a question or… Gather Information. Create a table, list, graph or chart that outlines the information you know, and leave blanks for… Create an Equation.
Answer:Step 1: What is asked in the problemStep 2: what are given in the problemStep 3:operation going to use to the problemStep 4:Write the number sentenceStep 5:Solve and check the problem
I am sure you will be interested in this
- Read the word problem. Make sure you understand all the words and ideas.
- Identify what you are looking for.
- Name what you are looking for.
- Translate into an equation.
- Solve the equation using good algebra techniques.
- Check the answer in the problem.
- Answer the question with a complete sentence.
- Focus on Math Keywords and Mathematical Key Phrases.
- Cross out Extra Information.
- Encourage Asking Questions.
- Draw the Problem.
- Check Back Once They Answer.