Apply all your math skills to solve real-world problems!
Tom had $19. He spent $7.50 and earned $5. How much does he have now?
Solving word problems can be tricky! Use this 4-step strategy to break them down into manageable parts.
1. Understand
What do I know? What do I need to find?
Read carefully, underline important numbers
2. Plan
Which operation(s) should I use?
Look for key words, decide on strategy
3. Solve
Do the math step by step
Show your work, be careful with calculations
4. Check
Does my answer make sense?
Verify with estimation or reverse operation
💡 Pro Tip: Don't skip steps! Even if a problem seems easy, following all 4 steps helps you catch mistakes!
Problem: Emma has 24 stickers. She gives 6 to each friend. How many friends got stickers?
Step 1 (Understand): I know: 24 stickers total, 6 per friend. I need: number of friends.
Step 2 (Plan): This is division - splitting 24 into groups of 6.
Step 3 (Solve): 24 ÷ 6 = 4 friends
Step 4 (Check): 4 friends × 6 stickers = 24 stickers ✓ Makes sense!