How To Solve Math Word Problems
What are Word Problems?
A "word problems" is a mathematical expression written in word format. In other words, it's a way of saying a math problem that gives real-life examples, or a problem in written form instead of just using numbers.
Although some people start to break out into hives at the mere mention of a word problem, there is a simple, proven method to helping break down the steps. However, one of the best things a student can do is practice word problems. The more often a student practices word problems, the more comfortable he will become with the steps.
WHISK Method
Solving word problems is as simple as a five step process, best-known by the acronym WHISK.
· WHAT
· HOW
· ILLUSTRATE
· SOLVE
· KEY
WHAT is the problem really asking you to solve? Make sure you read through the problem several times so you are sure you know exactly what you are reading. Identify important information and underline it so the info stands out. Don't just assume you know what the problem is asking, re-read the question and then determine what you should do next.
HOW should you solve the information? Should you use addition, subtraction, multiplication, division or something else? Use the key words you previously underlined to help you determine the answer.
ILLUSTRATE what you can by drawing a chart, table, picture or other representation. Sometimes visuals help you see the correct answer.
SOLVE the problem using the computation with the information you’ve already gathered.
KEY – Check your answer with two keys- common sense and computation. Do the opposite of the computation when possible.
Resources
Cengage Learning- Skill Builder Library “Solving Word Problems with WHISK”
http://college.cengage.com/collegesurvival/kanar/confident_student/6e/resources/article_whisk.html
