Grade 3 - 5 Word Problems & Problem Solving Made Easy

Class Description: Math Masters – Word Problems & Problem Solving

In this interactive class for grades 3-5, students will strengthen their math skills by tackling real-world word problems and developing problem-solving strategies. Through engaging activities, group discussions, and hands-on practice, students will learn how to break down complex problems, identify key information, and apply mathematical reasoning.

Students will work with multi-step word problems involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals. They will also explore different problem-solving strategies such as drawing models, using number lines, estimating, and logical reasoning.

By the end of the class, students will gain confidence in approaching word problems with a problem-solving mindset, improving both their math skills and critical thinking abilities.

                        Grade 4-5 Word Problem Mastery Curriculum

Topic: Successfully Completing Word Problems (Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction, Division, and Fractions)
Course Overview - This course teaches students how to analyze, set up, and solve word problems involving fundamental math operations. It emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving strategies, and real-world applications. 

Course Duration: 6  Weeks (Flexible)

Session 1: Understanding Word Problems

	•	Identifying key information in word problems
	•	Recognizing clue words for different operations (e.g., “total” for addition, “difference” for subtraction)
	•	Breaking down multi-step problems
	•	Practice with simple one-step problems

Activity: Word problem sorting (students categorize problems by operation)

Session  2: Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

	•	One-step and two-step problems
	•	Real-life scenarios (money, time, measurements)
	•	Checking work using estimation and inverse operations
Activity: Solve and create word problems using everyday scenarios


Session 3 : Multiplication Word Problems

	•	Recognizing multiplication scenarios (equal groups, arrays, repeated addition)
	•	Multi-digit multiplication word problems
	•	Real-world applications (area, groups of objects)
Activity: “Shopping Spree” challenge—students calculate total cost of multiple items



Session 4: Division Word Problems

	•	Identifying division situations (equal sharing, repeated subtraction)
	•	Division with remainders
	•	Multi-step problems involving division
Activity: “Party Planner” task—students divide snacks among groups and handle leftovers


Session 5: Fraction Word Problems

	•	Understanding fraction situations (part of a whole, comparison, operations with fractions)
	•	Adding and subtracting fractions with like and unlike denominators
	•	Multiplication and division of fractions in word problems
Activity: “Baking Fractions” challenge—students adjust recipes based on serving sizes



Week 6: Mixed-Operation and Multi-Step Word Problems
	•	Solving problems that require more than one operation
	•	Choosing the correct operation
	•	Applying problem-solving strategies (drawing models, making tables, logical reasoning)
Activity: Escape room challenge—students solve multi-step word problems to unlock clues