Exploring Word Problems Activity
This exploring word problems activity has children match 12 two-step camping word problems to equations with a letter for the unknown. Made for 3rd and 4th grade, with a practice page and answer key included.
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About this resource
Description
How to Teach Two-Step Word Problems
This exploring word problems activity gives children practice solving two-step word problems with addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. In a two-step problem, children must find a hidden first answer before they can find the final answer. Writing an equation with a letter such as n for the unknown number helps them plan both steps and see how the numbers in the story connect. Every problem in this set takes place on a camping and hiking trip, with rangers, scouts and hikers. The activity fits 3rd grade and 4th grade, and an answer key is included.
How to Use the Activity
Print the twelve Word Problem Cards and the twelve Equation Cards on one side of the paper and cut them apart on the dashed lines. Lay the Equation Cards face up. Children read a Word Problem Card, decide what the two steps are, and find the Equation Card that shows the problem. They record both card numbers on the Explorer Log, copy the equation and solve it to find n. Each equation uses a different set of numbers, so every problem matches exactly one card. This 3rd grade basic operations activity works well in a math center, with a partner or in a small group. A 3rd grade practice worksheet follows with six new two-step problems.
What’s Included
- A colorful cover page
- A How to Use page with prep and step-by-step directions
- 12 two-step Word Problem Cards
- 12 Equation Cards that use the letter n for the unknown number
- An Explorer Log recording sheet
- A 3rd grade practice worksheet with six two-step word problems
- An answer key for the cards and an answer key for the practice worksheet
Why This Activity Helps Kids
First, matching a story to an equation teaches children to think about what a problem is asking before they start to compute. Second, using a letter for the unknown number builds early algebra thinking that children will use in later grades. Third, the hands-on card game keeps children talking about their thinking, which helps them catch mistakes and check that each answer makes sense.
Ideas for Teachers and Parents
Model one card with the whole class and think aloud about the first step and the second step. Ask children to estimate an answer before they solve, then compare the estimate with the exact answer. Pair a strong reader with a partner who needs support with the stories. After the exploring word problems activity, invite children to write their own two-step camping problems and trade them with a friend.
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