Strategies for Solving Math Word Problems
Math word problems can be tricky and difficult to solve. Using the SQRQCQ method can make solving math word problems easier and less intimidating. Children with learning disabilities or in special education programs can learn how to solve math word problems by using this method. SQRQCQ is an abbreviation for Survey, Question, Read, Question, Compute, and Question.
1. Survey the Math Problem
The first step to solving a math word problem is reading it in its entirety to understand what you are being asked to solve. After you read it, you can decide the most relevant aspects of the problem that need to be solved and what aspects are not necessary to find the correct answer.
2. Question
Once you have an idea of what you’re attempting to solve, you now need to determine what formulas, steps, or equations you must utilize in order to find the correct answer. It is impossible to find an answer if you can’t determine what needs to be solved.
3. Read
Now that you’ve determined what needs to be solved, reread the problem and pay close attention to specific details. After this is done, determine which aspects of the problem are interrelated. You then want to determine what units the final answer will be in, whether it is miles per hours, liters, square feet, inches, etc.
4. Question
Now that you’re familiar with specific details and how different figures within the problem are interrelated, you must again determine what formulas or equations must be used or set-up to solve the problem. Be sure to write down what steps or operations you will use for easy reference.
5. Compute
The next step is to complete the calculations. Be sure to follow the steps you outlined while setting up an equation or using a formula. As you complete each step, check it off your list.
6. Question
Once you’ve completed the calculations, review the final answer and make sure it is correct or seems logical. If it does not appear logical, review the steps you took to find the answer and look for calculation or set-up errors. Recalculate the numbers or make other changes until you get a logical final answer.
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