Problem Solving in Math

The kids have been working super hard at learning their math facts and how to multiply with bigger numbers. They are all showing progress and doing great!!
The next step is to apply those skills to "real life" situations. It is important to be able to understand what a word problem is asking you to do. We have been practicing some "problem solving" strategies. Most recently, we have been using "Try, Check and Revise".
First, the students took some time to work on the problem by themselves.

Thinking, thinking, thinking! I love it!
It's ok to use numbers, pictures and/or words to solve a problem. Check out this labeling!

Next, it was time to get together in groups and share each other's thinking. How did you solve this problem?
The discussion about how each person got their answer was fantastic! If they can explain their thinking, they are one step closer to "getting it"! It's so much fun when they realize that there can be more than one way to solve a problem.
After each group shows their work on their chart paper, it's time for a "Gallery Walk". How did all of the other groups solve theirs? More explaining of thinking. So awesome!!
This process sure builds confidence in math. "Do it....solve it...share it!"