Problem solving has been and probably always will be one of the most arduous skills for a math teacher to teach. It can be tricky to teach students how to navigate different scenarios without becoming procedural. These tools are here to help your students tackle word problems without clinging to a step-by-step procedure.

What is included in this resource?

• 3 reference sheets
• 2 formats (half sheet and full sheet)

How can this resource help my students?

• Problem Solving Map - This map serves as a guide to determining the correct operation to use. Through yes or no questioning, students will practice identifying the total and/or equal parts if they are present.
• Using Strip Diagrams - This guide gives students a visual representation for each operation and provides guidance in how to find solutions.
• Helpful Language - While there are situations when students lean too heavily on "keywords", it's important not to shy away from addressing how helpful words can be for students. Words are language after all, and developing a student's ability to see mathematical processes in language is essential. This tool is especially helpful for English Language Learners.