What is a Problem?
• A problem is a question for which there is no
apparent solution.
• In order to solve the problem, it is necessary to
try different approaches in an attempt to find a
solution.
• This involves the application of prior
knowledge and skills as well as the use of
various problem solving strategies.
Mathematical Problems include…
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Word Problems
Practical Tasks
Open ended investigations
Puzzles
Games
Projects
Mathematical Trails
Word Problems
Why have children difficulty solving
word problems?
Mathematical Language
When children use mathematical language it is
important that they use it accurately.
Understanding mathematical language leads to
the correct interpretation of mathematical
symbols and accurate reading of word problems.
This helps the child to choose the correct
operation for the task.
Problem Solving Strategy
R.U.D.E
R.U.D.E
• R - Read
Pupils are encouraged to
read the word problem
at least 3 times
R.U.D.E
• U – Underline
• Key numbers and key
words in the problem
are underlined in pencil.
Example:
• Jane had 5 sweets. She
ate 3 sweets. How many
sweets are left?
R.U.D.E
• Key words are then
highlighted/underlined
according to the
mathematical operation
involved.
Colour
Mathematical
Operation
Examples of Key
Words/Questions
Blue
Addition
Red
Subtraction
Purple
Multiplication
Orange
Division
More, altogether, and,
plus, add
How many more?
What is the difference
between? spent, How
many are left?
Times, there are 20
pupils in each class,
how many are there in
5 classes?
Divided among,
shared, divided into
groups of
R.U.D.E
• D – Draw
Pupils are encouraged to draw
a picture/table/diagram of the
information being presented in
the problem. This approach
greatly assists visual learners
in comprehending the
problem.
R.U.D.E
• E – Estimate
Pupils make an estimation
as to what the answer
may be.
R.U.D.E
• The pupils write an
equation/sum for the
problem.
• They calculate their
equation and check their
calculations
Problem solving (2nd Class)
• Jack had 13 books. His
Granny gave him 3
more books as a
birthday present. How
many books has he
now?
Problem Solving (5th Class)
• There were 14,568
newspapers sold last
year. This year 1,278
fewer newspapers were
sold. How many
newspapers were sold
over the two years?