Problem Solving with Multiplication and Division

Reading and Understanding Word Problems#

Word problems take math out of the classroom and put it into real-life situations. Many students find word problems challenging — not because of the math, but because of the reading and understanding. Let's learn how to approach them step by step.

Why Word Problems Matter#

In real life, math problems do not come labeled as "multiply 6 × 8." Instead, you figure out what math to do from the situation. Word problems build this important skill.

A 4-Step Strategy for Word Problems#

Step 1: Read carefully Read the problem at least twice. Do not rush. Make sure you understand what is happening in the story.

Step 2: Identify what you know and what you need to find

• What information is given?
• What is the question asking? Circle or underline the key numbers and the question.

Step 3: Choose your operation Decide whether to multiply or divide (or both for two-step problems).

Step 4: Solve and check Solve the problem, then check: Dös my answer make sense?

Key Words That Signal Multiplication#

Look for these words to know when to multiply:

• each, every, per, groups of, rows of, altogether, total, times

Example: There are 6 baskets, and each basket holds 8 oranges. How many oranges altogether?

Key words: each and altogether → multiply: 6 × 8 = 48

Key Words That Signal Division#

Look for these words to know when to divide:

• share equally, split, divide, how many each, how many groups, separate into equal

Example: 36 students are split into equal groups of 9. How many groups are there?

Key word: split into equal groups → divide: 36 ÷ 9 = 4

A Caution About Key Words#

Key words are helpful, but do not rely on them alone! Always read the whole problem and understand the situation before deciding which operation to use.