Differentiated Word Problems

My kiddos are currently working on multiplication. They know their basis division, but we really haven’t started larger division yet. Not wanting to teach multiplication in isolation, I developed some multiplication and division word problems. The division word problems are basic fact, but still made my kiddo decide if the problem was multiplication or division.

I used these cards in conjunction with an array graphic organizer I created. Since my prior multiplication and factor teaching is so array based this array visual just makes sense. I have used this organizer for a couple years now, and have gotten good results out of my students.

I talked to my kiddos about how most multiplication and division word problems had two things that went together such as: fences & dogs; kids & slices of pizza; football players & touch downs; trees & leaves; books & backpacks; etc. I let them give a few examples too. We went on to discuss that one of the two things was the “group” and the other was the thing “being grouped.”

We read some of the multiplication and division word problems I created looking for only for the two things that went together. Hint: they are usually by the numbers, but not always.

We sorted the cards by their question. Was the question asking: # groups; # per group; # in all. We did a few together whole class, and then I gave each small group a few to sort together. Once they agreed, they placed it on a large anchor chart.

We were ready to start solving problems. Each student created an array foldable to put in their interactive notebook. I gave it student a record sheet. The record sheet has a spot for them to record the # groups, # per group, # in all. We read each problem once looking for the two things. On the second read, we found and recorded the info from the problem. Then, we made an equation and solved it.

After we worked several together, students walked around the room working the problems I had hanging from clips from my cabinets and walls. They were allowed to work with a buddy and at their own pace.

I have made three different levels to differentiate. I have placed cards on my front wall under my white board, on the side on my cabinets, and in the back on my wall. I told my students the cards are in the front are hard, the card on the side are harder, and the cards in the back are the hardest. They get to pick where to start-self differentiate. They like these terms. It makes them feel successful when they solve their problems. One year, I had a student request an even harder level; he called it insane. Click here to check out my differentiated word problems.

Word Problem Graphic Organizer

I don’t know about you, but many of my kiddos have a difficult time processing word problems—especially multi-step word problems. Over the last couple of weeks, I have been developing an 8 step graphic organizer designed to help my students think through the steps of solving any type of word problem.

• The graphic organizer may be displayed on an interactive whiteboard for whole class discussions.
• Students may keep a copy of the Problem Solving Strategy Graphic Organizer in their journals as a reference. Then, write the numbers 1-8 as they solve word problems.
• The teacher may choose to laminate the graphic organizer so that students may use fine tip dry erase markers to solve their problems.
• I have included a jpeg of the printable so that the teacher may order a poster from a company that makes poster from pictures. If you had a laminated poster, small groups of students could complete the Problem Solving Strategy Graphic Organizer together. One fun way is with sticky notes. 

Click here to get your FREE Word Problem Graphic Organizer! 

updated 1/11/16

Want to Get on the Right Track with Word Problems?

I have been working on a set of 26 task cards involving multiplication and division situations. Each task card contains a picture and two questions. Some problems have extra information, require students to interpret remainders, or require students to use the answer from the first problem to solve the second. (Common Core Standard 4.OA.3) The set includes a student record sheet and an answer key. Since understanding word problems is a skill in which so many students need extra practice, I decided to share my task cards with my Facebook Fans. Not a fan yet? Go to Facebook, click "like" then access the "Fan Freebies" tab.

***Update 1/6/15 This resource above is no longer available on my Facebook page; however, it is available for purchase in my TpT store. Click here to check it out.  You are now able to get my Cooperative Table Mats when you like my Facebook. I love this set of table mats because my students are continually working in cooperative groups. These mats make partnering up a breeze. They are available for groups of 4 or groups of 6. Like my Facebook page to get your FREE set of table mats!!