Word problems in math can be daunting whether they are basic arithmetic or advanced algebra. When offering math help to a struggling student, there are a few tips you can do that will reduce stress and improve understanding. Here are a few ways to approach word problems.

How to Help With Math Word Problems

1. Read It Through

Often, the issue is not the math but the reading comprehension portion. This can be tested by reading the problem to the child and seeing if they can understand it better than if they read it themselves. If that is the case, assistance with reading along with math help will be necessary. Ensure the student is also reading every line before attempting to work out the problem. Being impatient will only lead to wrong answers and frustration.

2. Stay Focused

For students with an attention issue or reading comprehension trouble, looking at a paragraph can be overwhelming, especially if the entire page is filled with different word problems. Encourage students not to rush and focus on only one line at a time. You may also cover the rest of the page with a blank sheet or index card so their eyes can zero in on the task at hand.

3. Find & Translate Clues

Finding the vital information and translating those clues into math terms is an essential step. Students must weed out unnecessary information, which can be done by circling critical components. They must also notice and comprehend math concepts in language form. For example, asking what the sum is or how many they have combined means addition while finding out the difference means subtraction is needed.

4. Take Notes

Encourage students who need math help to jot down notes as they work. This is especially useful for more complicated problems that have many steps and variables. As they encounter a critical component, write it down, continuing until they have all the pieces they need to find a solution. This process will help them sort through unnecessary words and pinpoint vital clues.

5. Practice

Just like with anything else, practice makes math easier. Consistent application of skills will take some of the fear out of tackling word problems. Students will learn tricks and techniques for different scenarios and grasp how to organize themselves to find the answer with ease.

When your child needs math help in Connecticut, trust the best math tutors available at Mathnasium. With a location in Avon and another in Trumbull, The Mathnasium Method™ has shown top results for the past 35 years, ensuring that every student gets the attention they need to succeed. To begin your tutoring services, call (860) 785-6284 for Avon and (203) 261-0588 for Trumbull. Visit them online for more information on their teaching methods.