Word Problems / Problem Solving Strategy That REALLY Works!!

Word problems are one of the most FRUSTRATING math topics for both students and teachers! For our state assessment, it is always the lowest scoring objective in our school. My students usually know HOW to either add, subtract, multiply or divide they just have trouble deciding which operation to use to solve the problem.

This method has them taking a few simple steps and asking the question, “Do I know the total?” If they can answer that question, they have already narrowed the operation choices down to two! This strategy is great for teaching whole group and the stations are great for small group, tutorials, math stations or independent practice.

This strategy unit includes:

**Problem Solving Strategy Posters
Includes posters for addition, subtraction, multiplication and division and when to use them. Use these bright and colorful step-by-step instructions whole group or place the posters around your classroom to reinforce the problem solving strategy.

**Problem Solving Printables
Includes foldable flap books, graphic organizers, student “cheat sheets” they can keep at their desks, and a problem solving worksheet to practice each step on.

**Problem Solving Sort
Students sort word problems by which operation is used to solve the problem. It includes 20 word problems covering all four operations, operation header cards and a student recording sheet.

**Problem Solving Task Cards
These task cards will help reinforce the problem solving strategy even more! Includes 20 word problem task cards from all four operations, a student recording sheet and a self-checking answer sheet.

Thanks for looking!
Sheila Melton

©Sheila Melton. All the activities included in this unit are the intellectual properties of Sheila Melton. This resource is for classroom use and is intended for the purchaser. Duplication for other classes, by other teachers or for use in wide distribution such as a school district or on the internet, is strictly forbidden unless multiple licenses are obtained. You may not re-sell or claim this product as your own. Violations are subject to the penalties of the (DMCA) Digital Millennium Copyright Act.