Faith Life & Learning and Teaching News

MATHEMATICS

Maths word problems & problem solving ... What's the difference?

Maths word problems involve seeing a maths problem in a real life situation which makes it easier to understand. Word problems can involve any operation: from addition to subtraction and division, or even multiple operations simultaneously. 

Some basic examples include; 

Steps to assisting with word problems;

1. Read the problem - identify what the question is asking
2. Identify & highlight - the numbers, words that connect to operations 
3. Determine the operations
4. Visualise the problem - drawing a picture or creating a diagram can be helpful
5. Solve the problem using an efficient mathematical approach
6. Check your answer with a quick estimate

Whereas problem solving in maths is more complex. It is the ability to apply reasoning and logic, interpret, formulate and investigate problem situations. Here is an example below;

Strategies students can use to work through a problem solving approach include;

1. Create a diagram or picture
2. Act it out
3. Look for a pattern
4. Guess & check
5. Working backwards
6. Eliminate possibilities
7. Make a table

Here is an example of a problem where the best approach would be to 'work backwards'.

Here is an example of when to use the 'guess & check' approach.

There are a variety of strategies for problem solving in maths so it is important that we name these so students are equipped with the skills to tackle them.

Kim Dalmau

Mathematics Leader

kdalmau@shnewport.catholic.edu.au