For full lesson outline, see Advantage Math.

Standards:

4.OA.3 Solve multi step word problems posed with whole numbers and having whole-number answers using the four operations, including problems in which remainders must be interpreted. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity. Assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies including rounding.

Objectives:

Math objective: I can solve word problems with multiple steps using the Problem Solving Steps and problem solving strategies.

Language objective: I can describe (in writing) the processes used for solving a multiple-step word problem.

Vertical Alignment:

3.OA.8 Solve two-step word problems using the four operations. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing or the unknown quantity. Assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies including rounding.

4.OA.3 Solve multi step word problems posed with whole numbers and having whole-number answers using the four operations, including problems in which remainders must be interpreted. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity. Assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies including rounding.

Multistep problems are not addressed in fifth grade.

Notes:

1. This lesson builds on information taught in Lesson 1 of this chapter.

2. Students should be familiar with solving word problems with up to two steps. Assess and review this skill as necessary.

Lesson Outline:

🚀Launch: Have students reflect on what they remember about the problem solving steps and what their favorite strategies are for solving word problems.

🤔 Explore: Review what information goes in each section of this graphic organizer, or present the information from lesson 4.1 again. If remote, record a lesson of you completing the Cow word problem. If in person, do this portion together. Students will complete two word problems. They get to choose one to share their thinking and answer on.

4.9 explore problems.PNG

💬Discuss: Have students solve the following problem and share what strategy they used, as well as their answer.

4.9 discuss 1.PNG

✅Exit Ticket: Have students complete the word problem from the lesson "check/formative assessment" and reflect on how they feel about their learning.

Additional Resources:

Differentiation:

Challenge: For students who need a challenge, encourage them to solve problems using two or more different problem solving strategies. For example, a student may first solve a problem using a picture and then go back and solve the problem again using equations. Invite students to discuss the pros and cons of the strategies they used. Students should look for which strategies may have been the most efficient for them as mathematicians.

Struggling: For students who are struggling with the calculations, allow them to use a multiplication chart and/or a calculator. For students who are struggling with solving multi-step problems, encourage them to act the problem out with manipulatives. Acting the problem out with manipulatives can take away the difficulty that is caused by the abstract nature of using equations or even drawing pictures.