Solving Word Problems 1

In a previous chapter, we have provided a framework for understanding word problems. Let us now look at some initial strategies for solving them.

Word Problem Talks

The same framework can be used to discuss understanding & solving word problems in the class as a “math talk” process. A problem can be taken by the teacher and written on the board. She can facilitate the discussion of the problem as per the suggested framework.

At a later stage, the class can be divided into small groups each of which can take up a word problem, discuss it and present the solution.

Math Comprehension Passages

One of the effective ways for understanding the language of the problems is to do comprehension exercises of math word problems. In these exercises the emphasis is on interpreting the language and not on solving the problem. They have several short questions which help students focus on various aspects of the problem and understand the context. They also help the students read the sentences in the problem carefully & completely.

Let us take the following word problem – Ram has 5 pencils less than Shyam. Shyam has 8 pencils. How many do they have together?

The crucial aspect of this problem is to interpret the word “less than” appropriately. Most children do not read the sentences carefully and wrongly understand that Ram has 5 pencils. The comprehension questions can draw their attention to all these aspects. Here are some sample questions.

1. Who has less pencils; Ram or Shyam?

2. Do we know how many pencils Shyam has?

3. If yes how many? If no what do you need to do?

4. Do we know how many pencils Ram has?

5. If so how many? If no what do you need to do?

6. What answer does the problem want you to find?

7. What is the information that need to have to find the answer?

Exercises like this may train students in reading a problem carefully and interpret the meaning of each sentence.