Math by Topic Sampler

Five Steps in Problem Solving Step 1. Read and understand. Step 2. Find the question and needed facts. Step 3. Decide on a process. Step 4. Estimate. Step 5. Solve and check back. Problem-Solving Strategies 1. Act it out. 2. Use a model. 3. Draw a picture. 4. Simplify. 5. Make a table. 6. Guess and check. 7. Write a number sentence. 6 p r o b l e m s o l v i n g f o r R T I How Math by Topic Works: Focus on Problem Solving Moving with Math ® Math by Topic features explicit instruction in solving word problems by finding their common underlying structures. A firm grasp of these structures, and of the key steps and strategies for solving such problems, will help students who have trouble tackling word problems. Lessons begin with problems from the teacher guide, the student page, or those written by the teacher or student. As students use manipulatives they discover the conceptual underpinnings of math. Research proves that students who use manipulatives have higher scores on achievement tests and are better problem solvers.