Word problems require students to read a language-based problem, identify necessary information to answer a prompt, and perform calculation(s) to develop a problem solution. Solving word problems proves particularly challenging for students because skill in reading, interpretation of language, and mathematics are required for word-problem proficiency. This class will provide a word-problem intervention to increase students’ understanding of three word-problem language features: naming a superordinate category, identifying irrelevant information, and providing a word-problem label.  Students who take this class  will demonstrate improvement on identifying irrelevant information and providing word-problem labels.  The importance of explicit teaching of language comprehension features within word-problems has been proven.  The goal of this class is to improve student ability to solve word problems and to give them practice with word problems.

Creating a curriculum for elementary students to solve word problems involves a gradual progression of skills, ensuring students build a strong foundation in understanding and solving various types of word problems. This is the curriculum for this class:

Week 1 -
Practice 
•	Understand simple addition and subtraction.
•	Develop reading comprehension skills.
•	Recognize keywords for addition (e.g., total, in all) and subtraction (e.g., left, fewer).
•	Understand and solve simple word problems using visual aids like pictures and objects.

Week 2 -
•	Use objects (e.g., blocks, counters) to represent word problems.
•	Practice with simple, one-step word problems.
•	Read and interpret simple sentences.

Week 3 -
•	Practice addition and subtraction problem-solving skills.
•	Begin to introduce basic multiplication concepts.
•	Solve one and two-step problems.

Week 4 -
•	Solve word problems with larger numbers and two steps.
•	Use drawings and diagrams to visualize problems.
•	Introduce basic multiplication through repeated addition word problems.

Week 5 - 
•	Practice addition, subtraction, and basic multiplication word problems.
•	Introduce division and simple fractions.

Week 6 -
	•	Recognize and use keywords for all four operations.
	•	Solve problems involving money and measurements.
	•	Understand division as the inverse of multiplication.

Week 7 -
	•	Solve multi-step word problems involving all four operations.
	•	Use number lines, arrays, and other visual aids for division and multiplication.
	•	Introduce problems involving fractions and equal parts.

Week 8 
•	Continue to practice  proficiency in solving word problems.
•	Review key words in word problems that represent addition, subtraction, multiplication, & division 
•	Use charts, graphs, and tables to organize information.
•	Solve real-world problems involving measurements and data..
•	Games and Activities: Educational games that reinforce problem-solving skills.