How to Help Your Child Solve a Situational Problem in Mathematics

There are different ways to tackle situational problems. Here’s the one most frequently taught in schools:

1. Study the problem
Start by carefully reading over the problem and making note of important information.

2. Paraphrase the problem
Write out the specific question or task you’re being asked to answer or complete in your own words.

3. Make a plan
Next, determine what steps are required to solve the problem. Apply your strategy to solve the problem. Remember to show your work.

4. Check the solution
Lastly, check your answer. You can do this by reading the problem again to make sure that you’ve answered the question. It’s important to double-check your calculations and make any necessary corrections.

Solving situational problems requires skill and a work method. Remind your child to use the methods they’ve learned in school. You can also share the following tips:

• Read the problem and look up any words you don’t understand
• Highlight what you need to find
• Highlight what you need to do
• Cross out all information that is irrelevant
• Reread the problem as often as you need to
• Identify which concepts you’ll need to use
• Make a drawing, diagram, or table
• Predict what the answer will be
• Consider all possibilities
• Eliminate possibilities
• Go back over your work
• Use the checklist
• Etc.

Solving situational problems also teaches students to communicate; they have to be able to explain their work and justify their answer(s). Remind your child about these important steps:

• Show your work (include all necessary calculations, tables, diagrams, symbols, and explanations)
• Organize your work by numbering or using headings for the different steps
• Clearly indicate your answer
• Use mathematical terms in your answer
• Etc.

Even if they have mastered the concepts taught in school and know what they have to do to find the answer, some students lack confidence when it comes to solving situational problems. If this is the case for your child, here are a few suggestions to help them regain confidence:

• Think back to the last problem you solved
• Think about a similar exercise that you did in class
• Remember what you’re good at
• Take a deep breath
• Use all the time you’re given
• Etc.