Maths Word problems are difficult. Even I occasionally get stuck figuring out how to solve a word problem correctly, so think about how our kids might feel!
Many variables contribute to kids’ difficulty with word problems. Fortunately, no child is a hopeless case regarding this difficult talent. We can design an effective plan to assist them by recognizing why our kids may be suffering.
Here are some of the most typical reasons why kids struggle with Maths word problems, and what you can do to help.
#1: Reading comprehension.
One of the primary reasons why some kids struggle with word problems is that they are not just arithmetic problems; they need reading! Furthermore, kids must be able to first understand what is asked, then check what is available to solve the problem and then find out what is required to solve the problem. As a result, a lack of reading comprehension will have a significant impact on a kid’s ability to answer maths word problems.
How To Help
If you find a child failing with word problems due to a lack of reading comprehension, assist them comprehend with the problem statement. The ideal approach to achieve this can differ depending on the child, but here are some suggestions:
- Have the kids create a picture of what’s happening while they read.
- Use photos or other images.
- Act out the word problem!
- Ask several questions while reading the problem to keep kids attentive.
- Change the word problem to be more relevant for the child.
#2: Just looking at the numbers
One typical common difficulty that all math teachers have observed that, kids frequently do not pause to read the problem, instead pulling out the numbers and doing a random operation. Unfortunately, this problem is common because of how math textbooks are generally designed. Of course, the word problems in a certain lesson are relevant to that topic. If I’m teaching a subtraction lesson, kids may expect the subsequent word problems to incorporate subtraction. This has unintentionally taught the kids that they do not need to read the problem; they only need to understand the numbers.
How to Help
There are two things you can do to help in this case. First and foremost, kids must develop the habit of answering a range of word problems on a regular basis. We need to expose kids to maths word problems on a regular basis, but not all of them require the same process to answer. If your curriculum does not include a few practice problems every day, consider adding them to assist diversity the sorts of issues your kids are exposed to.
Another option is to offer them numberless word problems. That is, remove the numbers from the problems so that kids are forced to focus on what is happening. Discuss the problem without using numbers; then, when kids are ready, add the numbers back in. This will assist kids develop the habit of reading the problem.
#3: Tricky Language
One major issue I’ve noticed with math word problems is that many curriculum and test writers utilize complex phrasing intended to confuse kids. I have a mixed views about this strategy, but that’s the way it is! So, even if your kids have excellent reading comprehension and understand how to answer a problem, they will not be distracted by the problem’s language and solve it improperly.
How to Help
Unfortunately, you can’t do much about how math word problems are stated. However, there are still strategies to help your kids avoid being caught up. First, do not educate children that certain terms represent a certain operation. This was earlier a standard technique, but textbook corporations caught on and are now using it against us. If kids have already been taught something, you may need to unteach it.
The language used is still crucial to pay attention to; we simply don’t want kids to believe that specific phrases always signify something.
Teaching kids to utilize language to discern whether the numbers in the issue are a part or the total is far more successful.
About Course
- Teach different tricks to identify right operation
- Teach different tricks to identify right operation
- Teach the approaches to step by step identify the problem and then solve
- Use of keywords to support identifying mathematical operation
- Ensure completion of assignments in the books
- Online quizzes attempts
- Regular assessments & practice
- At the end, final exam and certificate
Every problem is unique, and hence once has to be patient and persistent. Developing a systematic approach and practicing sums regularly will only contribute to the success in solving math word problems.
This course teaches various strategies and methods, such as breaking down problems into smaller steps, CUBES method, provide real-life examples, and offer opportunities for hands-on learning to make word problems easier to understand for the students.
Course content
This course covers following areas for enhancing Math word problem solving skills of the students
- Read and understand the problem
- Guess the operation
- Understand problem using CUBES method
- Understand problem without numbers
- Real life examples with small numbers
- Regular assigments
- Group discussion and problem solving
- Online quizzes for unlimited practice and many more...
- Final test and certificate
Course Benefits
Real-world Application
Math word problems often involve real-life scenarios, helping students understand the practical applications of mathematical concepts. This can enhance their problem-solving skills and show them the relevance of math in everyday situations. and useful.
Critical Thinking
Word problems require students to analyze information, identify relevant details, and devise a plan to solve the problem. This promotes critical thinking skills, helping students become better at logical reasoning and decision-making.
Preparation for Competitive Exams
Many competitive exams include word problems to assess students' problem-solving abilities. Practicing math word problems can help students feel more confident and perform better on these exams.
Prepare for Real-life Challenges
Life is full of challenges that require analytical thinking and problem-solving. Word problems serve as a training ground for students to hone these skills, preparing them for the problem-solving demands they will encounter in various academic and professional settings.
Multiple Skill Development
Solving word problems involves a combination of mathematical skills, reading comprehension, and logical reasoning. This multifaceted approach helps children develop a well-rounded skill set.
Understand Mathematical Concepts
Word problems provide a context for applying abstract mathematical concepts in a concrete manner. This aids in deepening students' understanding of mathematical principles by showing how they can be used to solve practical problems.
Communication Skills
Effectively solving a word problem often involves explaining the solution in a clear and concise manner. This nurtures communication skills as students articulate their thought processes, fostering the ability to express mathematical ideas.
Engagement and Motivation
Word problems can make learning math more engaging and interesting. By placing math in a real-world context, students are more likely to see its relevance and become motivated to understand and solve problems.
Adaptability and Flexibility
Word problems come in various forms, requiring students to adapt their problem-solving strategies to different situations. This fosters adaptability and flexibility in approaching challenges, skills that are valuable in many areas of life.
COURSE OFFERS
- A kit with two books
- Weekly classes
- Assignments & unlimited online practice
- Participation in International competition
Want to know more about the course?
FAQ
Most frequently asked questions and answers
This course is designed for students from 3rd std. onwards.
It depends on your choice and proximity of teacher to your location. The classes are conduced by our certified experienced teacher all over the country.
Yes. You can always ask for a DEMO class to the concerned teacher. However, trust us that this course is designed in such a way that every student must master in solving word problems.
Yes, there will be an exam at the end of this course and system generated certificate will be issued only after passing with minimum75% score.
The classes will be twice a week, the days and timing will be mutually decided by the teacher and the student.
Please contact us at aristokids4u@gmail.com or +91 93903 53148 for the details.