Strategies for Solving Word Problems

Rachel explains how to teach multi-step word problems to third graders. She emphasizes the importance of circling keywords, setting up equations, solving them, and remembering to label units. A sample problem involving area calculation is demonstrated, highlighting the steps of identifying key numbers, setting up the equation, solving it, and labeling the answer with correct units.

What is the main focus of the video tutorial?

• Teaching division to Grade 3 students

• Teaching multiplication to Grade 3 students

• Teaching multi-step word problems to Grade 3 students

• Teaching addition to Grade 3 students

What is the first key strategy mentioned for solving word problems?

• Writing a summary

• Guessing the answer

• Drawing diagrams

• Circling keywords or key numbers

Why is it important to circle keywords or key numbers in a word problem?

• To practice handwriting

• To make the problem longer

• To identify the information needed for the equation

• To make the problem look colorful

What should students do after circling the key information in a word problem?

• Solve the equation immediately

• Ask the teacher for help

• Write a story about the problem

• Set up the equation

What is a common mistake students make after solving a word problem?

• Forgetting to write their name

• Forgetting to include units in the answer

• Forgetting to use a calculator

• Forgetting to ask for help

What is the sample problem about in the video?

• Counting the number of apples

• Measuring the height of a tree

• Finding the area of a lawn

• Calculating the perimeter of a garden

What are the dimensions of the lawn in the sample problem?

• 5 feet by 6 feet

• 6 feet by 7 feet

• 5 feet by 7 feet

• 7 feet by 8 feet

What formula is used to calculate the area in the sample problem?

• Area = length / width

• Area = length x width

• Area = length - width

• Area = length + width

What is the calculated area of the lawn in the sample problem?

• 35 square feet

• 30 square feet

• 40 square feet

• 25 square feet

What is the final step in solving the sample problem?

• Asking a friend to verify

• Including the correct units

• Writing a conclusion

• Checking the answer with a calculator