Start by identifying the key information and variables in the problem, translate the words into mathematical symbols or operations, create an equation or system of equations, and then solve for the unknown variable.
Comprehensive answer to the question
Math word problems can be intimidating, but there are ways to approach them that make them easier to solve. The following steps can help:
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Identify the key information and variables: Read the problem carefully and underline or highlight the most important information. Look for numbers, units of measurement, and keywords that indicate the mathematical operation needed.
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Translate the words into mathematical symbols or operations: Write out the equation or system of equations needed to solve the problem, using the variables and operations that correspond to the words in the problem. This step is crucial to ensure that you are solving the right problem.
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Simplify the equation: Use your knowledge of algebra and arithmetic to simplify the equation as much as possible. Combine like terms, distribute, and cancel out common factors.
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Solve for the unknown variable: Use any method you know to solve the equation for the unknown variable. Remember to plug in any known values and simplify the equation as you go.
“Mathematics is the language with which God has written the universe.” – Galileo Galilei
Interesting facts:
- The word “algebra” comes from the Arabic word “al-jabr,” which means “the reunion of broken parts.” This refers to the process of moving terms around an equation to simplify it.
- Math anxiety is a real phenomenon, with some studies estimating that up to 20% of people experience it. Strategies like deep breathing and positive visualization can help alleviate these feelings.
- Many famous mathematicians, including Blaise Pascal and Paul Erdős, have reported experiencing bouts of what is now known as “imposter syndrome,” or the feeling that they are not actually skilled in their field despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.
Table:
| Key Information | Variables |
|---|---|
| Number of apples | A |
| Cost per apple | C |
| Total cost | T |
Example problem: If John buys 5 apples at $1.50 each, how much does he spend?
Steps:
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Key information: John buys 5 apples at $1.50 each. Variables: A = 5, C = 1.50, T = ?
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Translation: The total cost of John’s purchase can be calculated using the equation T = A*C.
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Simplification: T = (5)*(1.50) = 7.50
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Solution: John spends $7.50 on his apples.
Answer in video
The video “easy system to solve word problems.wmv” teaches viewers how to solve word problems using the “buck box” method, which involves underlining the question, circling the required information, and eliminating unnecessary details. The speaker provides a clear example to help clarify the process and offers additional vocabulary words to define and diagrams to enhance memory retention.
Here are some other answers to your question
Here are the seven strategies I use to help students solve word problems.
- Read the Entire Word Problem.
- Think About the Word Problem.
- Write on the Word Problem.
- Draw a Simple Picture and Label It.
- Estimate the Answer Before Solving.
- Check Your Work When Done.
- Practice Word Problems Often.
Generally, solving a word problem involves four easy steps:
- Read through the problem and set up a word equation — that is, an equation that contains words as well as numbers.
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!
Solving a math word problem involves four steps: 1. Read through the question and set up a word equation (we’ll show you how in a minute). 2. Put numbers in place of the words to set up a regular math equation. 3. Now, solve the math equations.
Try underlining or highlighting key information, such as numbers and key words that indicate what operation is needed to perform. Translate the problem into mathematical expressions or equations, and use the information and equations generated to solve for the answer.
You will most likely be intrigued
- 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!
- Read the problem out loud to yourself.
- Draw a Picture.
- Think “What do I need to find?”
- List what is given.
- Find the key words.
- Solve.
- Check your work.
One of the biggest reasons why some students struggle with word problems is because they aren’t just regular math problems – they involve reading! And more than that, students have to be able to fully comprehend what is happening in the problem in order to figure out how to solve it.