“You have to help teach math,” my principal said as she looked at me. And, my mouth dropped open.
“But, I’m an English teacher. I didn’t go to school to teach math,” I replied. And, I wasn’t lying. I didn’t go to school to teach math. I didn’t go to school to teach elementary education. I just happened to work at an elementary school teaching 5th and 6th grade ELA. It wasn’t that I hated math or that I didn’t understand it. In fact, I made “A’s” in math in school. However, math was not my forte. So, I definitely didn’t want to teach it.
“I know. But, you can teach word problems. They are a form of reading,” my principal replied with a smirk and walked away.
And, thus begin my career with math word problems.
Let’s be honest, math word problems can pose a problem for our students. They don’t understand them. And, sometimes, we don’t either 🤷🏾♀️.
However, math word problems are a part of our everyday lives. They serve as gateways to real-world applications of mathematical concepts. Math word problems provide students with opportunities to apply their mathematical knowledge to solve practical problems encountered in everyday life and make learning more meaningful. So, stop shaking in your boots, and let’s dive right into how to effectively teach, use, and understand math word problems.
Why Students Struggle with Math Word Problems
So, why do students struggle so much with math word problems? Even if they know how to work the problems when they are clearly written out, they may find the same problem challenging when presented to them in the form of a question. But, why? The following are some of the reasons that students struggle with math word problems.
Fear of Math
Many students harbor a fear of mathematics. They view math as a daunting subject. This fear can manifest as anxiety when confronted with math word problems. This anxiety can inhibit a students’ ability to think critically and solve problems effectively.
Lack of Understanding of Mathematical Concepts
A weak foundation in fundamental math can impede students’ ability to tackle word problems. Without a clear understanding of mathematical operations, terminology, and principles, students may struggle to interpret and solve complex problems accurately.
Difficulty in Translating Words to Symbols
Math word problems require students to translate verbal descriptions into mathematical expressions or equations—an abstract skill that poses challenges for many learners.
Inability to Decode the Problem’s Context
Understanding the context of a math word problem is crucial for selecting appropriate problem-solving strategies. Students may struggle to discern relevant information from extra details. This can lead to confusion and inefficiency in problem-solving.
Overreliance on Memorization
Some students rely solely on memorization to solve math problems. They don’t fully grasping the underlying concepts. This superficial understanding hinders their ability to apply mathematical principles.
The Importance of Math Word Problems in Education
Beyond mere computation, math word problems foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. They equip students with the ability to analyze complex situations, formulate strategies, and arrive at logical solutions—a skill set essential for success in both academic and professional spheres.
The Benefits of Math Word Problems
Enhancing Critical Thinking Skills
Math word problems require students to analyze information, identify patterns, and devise strategies to solve problems. This process fosters critical thinking skills.
Developing Problem-Solving Abilities
Our students need to know how to solve problems in the “real world”. By presenting “real world” scenarios that require mathematical solutions, word problems encourage students to apply their problem-solving skills in practical contexts. This hands-on approach nurtures resilience and adaptability.
Real-World Application of Mathematical Concepts
Math word problems bridge the gap between classroom learning and “real world” scenarios. They demonstrate the relevance and applicability of mathematical principles in everyday life.
Promoting Analytical Thinking
Analyzing and dissecting math word problems require students to break down complex information into manageable components. Word problems help to foster analytical thinking skills in your students.
Fostering Persistence and Resilience
Math word problems often require multiple steps to arrive at a solution. By persevering through challenges and setbacks, students develop resilience and grit—qualities that are fundamental to academic success and personal growth.
How to Teach Math Word Problems
Start with Concrete Examples
Begin by presenting concrete, real-life scenarios that illustrate the application of mathematical concepts. This approach provides context and relevance. This makes abstract concepts more tangible to students.
Emphasize Problem-Solving Strategies
Teach students a variety of problem-solving strategies, such as drawing diagrams, making tables or charts, working backwards, and using logical reasoning. Encourage students to select and apply the most appropriate strategy based on the nature of the problem.
Provide Ample Practice Opportunities
Practice! Practice!! Practice!!! That’s my motto. Like I tell my students, you won’t want to show up to a championship game without having practiced several times.
And, continuous exposure to math word problems works. So, be sure to offer students lots of opportunities to practice solving math word problems across different contexts and difficulty levels. Gradually increase the complexity of problems as students develop confidence and proficiency in problem-solving.
Scaffold Learning with Guided Instruction
Provide structured guidance and support to scaffold students’ problem-solving skills. Break down complex problems into manageable steps and offer prompts or hints to help students navigate challenging aspects of the problem.
Encourage Collaborative Problem-Solving
Teamwork makes the dream work. And, it can help you to effectively teach math problems.
Encourage students to discuss strategies, share insights, and collaborate on solving problems together. Peer learning enhances engagement and fosters a supportive learning environment.
Use Technology as a Learning Tool
Another way to help you effectively teach math word problems is to integrate technology. Interactive simulations, digital manipulatives, and online problem-solving platforms can provide students with engaging and interactive learning experiences.
Offer Constructive Feedback and Reflection
Provide timely and specific feedback to students on their problem-solving efforts. Highlight strengths and areas that need improvement. Encourage your students to reflect on their problem-solving process. Emphasize the importance of persistence, resilience, and continuous learning.
Why Teach Math Word Problems
Now, this is a question that I wanted an answer too. Why on earth should a teacher (especially an English teacher) teach math word problems?
Preparing Students for Real-Life Situations
Math word problems simulate real-life scenarios that students may encounter in various contexts. And, some of the main “real world” scenarios include personal finance, scientific research, or engineering projects. By mastering problem-solving skills, students become better equipped to navigate the complexities of the world around them.
Enhancing Mathematical Proficiency
Solving math word problems requires your students to apply mathematical concepts in meaningful contexts, deepening their understanding of mathematical principles. This active engagement promotes retention and fluency, leading to greater mathematical proficiency.
Cultivating Critical Thinking Skills
Math word problems challenge students to think critically, analyze information, and evaluate alternative strategies. By grappling with complex problems, students develop the ability to think logically, make reasoned judgments, and approach challenges with confidence.
Fostering a Growth Mindset
Embracing math word problems as opportunities for learning and growth fosters a growth mindset—a belief in one’s ability to improve through effort and perseverance. By reframing challenges as opportunities for learning, students develop resilience, optimism, and a willingness to take on new challenges.
Promoting Lifelong Learning
The problem-solving skills developed through math word problems are not only applicable in academic settings but also in everyday life. By equipping students with the tools and strategies to tackle complex problems, educators empower them to become lifelong learners who are capable of adapting to new challenges and seizing opportunities for growth.
Steps to Explain How to Effectively Read and Understand Math Word Problems
Identify Key Information
Teach your students to begin by carefully reading the problem to identify key information such as the quantities involved, the relationships between them, and the specific task or question posed.
Determine the Mathematical Operation(s) Required
Consider the nature of the problem and determine which mathematical operations are relevant for solving it. Encourage your students to look for clues in the problem statement such as keywords or phrases that indicate addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, or other mathematical operations.
Translate Words into Mathematical Symbols
Translate the verbal description of the problem into mathematical symbols or expressions. Pay attention to the meaning of key terms and phrases and represent them accurately in the mathematical model.
Reflect on the Problem-Solving Process
Encourage students to reflect on their problem-solving process, considering what strategies were effective, what challenges they encountered, and how they might approach similar problems differently in the future. Emphasize the importance of learning from mistakes and iterating on problem-solving techniques.
Conclusion
Math word problems are not merely mathematical exercises but opportunities for intellectual growth and development. By embracing these challenges and mastering problem-solving skills, students can unlock their full potential and become confident, resourceful, and resilient problem solvers. And, you can effectively teach your students how to understand and use math word problems. How? By examining the struggles and mistakes that your students make when solving these problems.
So, did I teach math word problems like my principal asked? Yes! I taught math word problems for 15 minutes teach morning with my class. I thought it would be a nightmare, but I even began to enjoy my time teach my kiddos math.
Other articles to read:
Why Word Problems Are Such a Struggle for Students—And What Teachers Can Do