#4324. Word Problem Pen Pals

Mathematics, level: 3-5
Posted Mon Jan 19 18:20:26 PST 2009 by Mathman (Mathman).
Fun Math Worksheets
New York
Materials Required: brains and paper and pencils
Activity Time: 30 minutes
Concepts Taught: Math word problems

After we've learned a math skill we're learning about (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division), I have my students write math word problems and "mail" them to each other.

Step 1: Model several good word problems, so your students know how to write them, what to include, and what key words or phrases should be included.

Step 2: Have your students write five word problems on their own.

Step 3: Each kid is randomly assigned to "mail" the word problems to five different classmates.

Step 4: The classmate must solve all of the problems he/she receives and give them back to the original writer.

Step 5: The child who originally wrote the word problems is responsible for correcting their classmates' work.

It's much more fun than simply doing problems from a book, and it involves more critical thinking.