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MATH WORD PROBLEMS: MATH WORD PROBLEMS

This guide uses the U.P.S. strategy for individuals to break apart math word problems. This can be used at any time and on any type of math word problem.

INTRODUCTION

Math word problems are always a challenge for individuals. Using this strategy can help anyone break down word problems, so the word problem becomes more manageable. In addition, this strategy helps anyone come up with questions they need help with. If you do not solve the word problem, that is okay. Use this strategy to have questions ready for your instructor, professor, or anyone else that is willing to help you.

SOMETIMES MATH PROBLEMS FEEL LIKE THIS:

UPS STRATEGY IN ACTION

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OUR GOAL:

Our goal: to make word problems manageable. 

HOW? BREAK THEM UP!

Breaking word problems up into tiny pieces will stop you from choking! Similar to eating any large portion of food!

We are going to use the U.P.S. Strategy!

  • Understand
  • Plan
  • Solve

UNDERSTAND

UNDERSTAND:

  • Look at the last sentence
  • What is the goal of the problem?
  • What are some keywords from the goal?

PLAN

PLAN:

  • What are the smaller, "bite-sized" pieces?
  • What do these pieces represent?
  • Draw a picture.
  • List ideas about how to solve.
  • Create a plan for your ideas and "bite-sized" pieces.

SOLVE

SOLVE:

  • Use the plan to solve.
  • Does this answer make sense?
  • Write down questions for the pieces that confused you.

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