Problem Solving
We will be using the following general process for solving application problems:
- Translate - Read the problem (use highlighting strategy, if possible - see below). Estimate an answer. Translate from a problem in words to a problem using math symbols and numbers.
- Solve - Do the computation. Be sure to SHOW ALL the work done to find the solution!!!
- Check - Reread the problem. Does the answer you got in Step 2 seem reasonable?
- Answer - Depending on the directions, either write your answer in a complete sentence or simply circle your final answer and its label.
The steps are T-S-C-A. Can you think of a mnemonic (memory jogger) that will help you remember them?
The highlighting strategy below will help you read and understand math word problems. You will need two differently-colored highlighters:
Decide which color will be your "Question" color (recommend yellow) and which will be your "Facts" color (recommend orange or pink).
Read the entire problem. Highlight the important question words in the first color.
Read the entire problem a second time, highlighting only the information you need to solve the problem in the second color.
As you solve the problem, everything highlighted in the second color should be part of your work shown.
Rephrase the question words highlighted in the first color to write a clear and complete answer sentence.