Mathematical understanding involves distinguishing the quantities, units, and relationships in a simple situation from descriptive details that do not affect its solution, and identifying which known values and unknown quantity are represented by the question. In one-step addition, subtraction, and comparison situations within 20, this information supports an accurate drawing, equation, or other mathematical model; multi-step problems and more advanced forms of relevance are not included.
Before solving a word problem, find the information that helps you answer the question.
Look for:
Some details may be interesting but do not change the answer.
Example
Mia has red stickers. She puts more stickers in her blue notebook. How many stickers does Mia have now?
Step 1: Find the known amounts.
Mia starts with stickers and adds stickers.
Step 2: Find the relationship.
The words “ more” tell us to add.
Step 3: Decide what information is not needed.
The stickers being red and the notebook being blue do not affect how many stickers Mia has.
Step 4: Find what is unknown.
The question asks for the total number of stickers.
Step 5: Make a math model.
Mia has stickers now.
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