Elementary Math

1
The 4 Step - Windowpane
Elementary Math Problem Solving Model
2
Step 1 Main Idea

• What is the question asking?
• What problem are you trying to solve?
• What information are you looking for?
• In box 1, write down key information, summarizing
  it in your own words

3
Step 2 Details

• What details are needed to answer the question?
• What important facts or data are given?
• What can help you solve the problem?
• In box 2, use unit bars, words and phrases to
  record given information

4
Step 3 Work

• What work are you going to do to solve the
  problem?
• What is your strategy?
• What do you do with the details to get the
  answer?
• Choose a strategy/operation to best find a
  solution to the problem and apply it here. Show
  your work!
• Draw a picture Look for a pattern
• Write a number sentence Use actions -
  operations ( - x /)
• Make a table or list Work a simpler problem
• Work problem backwards Act out the situation

5
Step 4 How

• What were your steps?
• What strategy did you use?
• How did you solve the problem?
• Use words or phrases to describe how you solved
  the problem. Look back at Box 3 to be sure that
  your work, problem solving strategies and answer
  are reasonable.