Students all over the country are struggling with math, and a core issue is the lack of critical thinking necessary to solve word problems.
Often the Root of the Word Problem Challenge
Literacy may not have completely dropped off in the last 40 years, but it sure feels like critical thinking has. Students are having a tough time with persevering through word problems.
It’s not necessarily that they can’t do the math. In fact, students are likely to score higher when they are just focused on the numerical computation. But as soon as a student sees word problems, they freeze.
Not all students have this problem. In fact, there are many out there who tackle these problems head-on, no hesitation.
The one difference? Well, I can’t say I know that for sure, but my observation has been that the successful students love reading. They love it, and they do it often.
You can’t make students start loving to read out of nowhere, so is there a second option that could help with the word problem dilemma?
Baby Steps to Conquering the Word Problem Challenge
Students need practice in an environment where they will get feedback as they work through the problems. You can achieve this easily in small groups.
Find a selection of word problems and set the students to work. Call students up in groups to check their progress and coach them through their work, and when you’re done, send them back to work again.
It is best if students at their desks are quiet, and working independently. After all, they won’t be allowed to talk during a state test.
The other reason they should work independently is to build up their own endurance and confidence. Once students realize they can sus out word problems on their own, they will start to become confident in their ability to do it more.
Another trick to helping them build word problem independence is giving them their own set of problems. This way, you can be sure there are no copycats (you know how students like to be “helpful”).
As you continue to expose them to word problems, and as you build their confidence in their skills, they will make a huge stride toward tackling the word problem challenge!
Need a Resource?
Check out my CLASS SET word problems from my TPT Store! Crafted for this specific purpose, there are 20 unique word problem packets included. Each packet covers many of the 5th grade standards state tests do in a simple direct way.
Check it out here: 5th Grade State Testing Practice Word Problems Full Class Set by Skyward Teaching on Teachers Pay Teachers
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