How can i learn to do algebra word problems?

Answer 1

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While I teach in elementary, we use a strategy to help distinguish important information from the "trash," or info that we don't need. It can be applied to any word problem at any level to make everything easier to understand. Let me use this very basic word problem as an example:

Mario has 20 cookies. There are 15 people in his class. He would like to share them with four friends at lunch. If Mario takes an equal share as well, how many cookies does each person get?

Step one: Rewrite the question by itself. This just focuses your mind on the task at hand, and if there is any unneeded information, you will be able to get rid of it easier.

"How many cookies will each person get?"

Step two: Write down all the details (esp. any numbers given) and cross out the information that does not apply. If you are given any variables, it would be good to list them here and what they would stand for.

"-20 cookies in all
-15 people in class (then cross this line out, making sure you don't get confused and throw it into the equasion)
-5 people, including Mario."

Step Three: Set up a strategy and solve the problem.
For this problem, it might help to draw a picture of 20 cookies and put them into 5 equal groups, then count the number in each group. (For algebra, you may need to draw pictures of figures if you are working with area, volume, perimeter, etc.)
You could also just set up the equasion if you know where you're going:
"20/5=4"

Step four: Check your answer. In this case, you would multiply the answer by the denominator and if correct, get the numerator.

As I said, this is a very basic math question, but the concept will work for any word problem. It's great for getting your mind to focus on the actual question without letting all the words get in the way. Hope I helped!

Source(s):

Being a third-grade teacher. :)

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

This is the only answer that actually gave an expanation and an example that made sense.

Answer 2

Ask your teacher

Answer 3

I would suggest getting a tutor and talking to your teacher.

Answer 4

practice. The more you do, the better you'll get at it. you could google for practice problems.

Answer 5

Try this website

http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesiz…

Source(s):

http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesiz…