Need help identifying different types of word problems so that the correct basic operation(s) could be applied to get the solution? This is the most complete list I've seen yet! It even gives you specific example word problems for each type. Use it as a poster, anchor chart, or for your own reference.

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A favorite product that teaches basic addition and subtraction in the way children think...from the concrete use of manipulatives to 2-dimensional scaffolding with pictures/colors to the abstract computation consisting of symbols and numbers. A great way to get kids to understand these operations and really get to know the basic facts.

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Here's some easy algebraic concepts with pictures only! So fun! Make and finish equations cut and paste. FREE

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Math Tip Monday. Operations and Algebraic Thinking. This graphic organizer can help students make sense of addition and subtraction word problems. Works especially well with part-part-whole examples.

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Math Tip Monday (November) Operations and Algebraic Thinking

 A great way to introduce odd and even numbers! "Even" always has a partner...."odd" always has an odd man out. A simple little game, complete with colorful game sheet. Help yourself!

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This regrouping addition board has a lot of attraction for students and teachers! It's magnetic, hands-on, and easy to use as a demonstration board (great for small group work..hold up the board to show group how to manipulate parts and nothing will fall off) and as a student "work" board. Terrific way to reveal what's really happening when regrouping in addition.

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Halloween Costume Math.....compare with graphs and fractions.

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This is such creative genious! Decorate cardboard boxes, hinge them together, put a kid inside....and you've got a moving, changing Transformer. It's like the movie's main character came to life! See the photos here and get the link here to view the video. It's fantastic!

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Posted by Margo Gentile on Sep 17, 2015 under

 

A 2-person collaborative mirrored counting activity which can be done teacher-student, tutor-student, paraprofessional-student, parent-child, older sibling-younger sibling, older student-younger student, skilled peer-unskilled peer. Simple manipulative that can be made from a sentence strip, counters, and velcro.

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"Teachers Nurture Growth Mindsets in Math": If math were music, mastering the basic concepts would be like learning scales and leading students through discussions

of open problems would be like playing songs.  Education Week

Do you want to read the whole article? You know what I think about this? Open this post and see! What do you think of it? Respond in the comments, please!

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Posted by Margo Gentile on Sep 08, 2015 under ,

It's your choice! Many recycling projects and activities are listed in this We Are Teachers article. Recycle with Penny Pencil as well!

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Posted by Margo Gentile on Jun 27, 2015 under

A funny and unique way to look at the use of parentheses in math.

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Posted by Margo Gentile on May 29, 2015 under

Mom is 28 years older than Zack.  Mom is 4 years younger than Dad.  Their total age is 84 years.  What is mom's age?

See how to solve this math word problem using a bar model.

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Posted by Margo Gentile on Mar 17, 2015 under ,

Let your little leprechauns try their "thinking power" on this free practice sheet designed for St. Patrick's Day and math! Colorful challenging fun.

 

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