The Basic Framework ◆ 29get hints about how to set up the problem with tape diagrams. If the
students do one problem at a time, they can get the hints and the answers.
This is how I recommend that they practice it. There is also an option to
generate several word problems at a time, but these just give the word
problems without all of the scaffolding. (See the Greg Tang Word Problem
Generator: http://gregtangmath.com/materials.))
Key Points
- CGI provides a framework for teaching word problems (Carpen-
ter et al., 2014). - The emphasis should be on the problem types and structure rather
than on key words. - There are four major categories for addition and subtraction.
- There are three major categories for multiplication and division.
- There are multiple levels of fraction problem solving.
- There are levels for two-step problems.
- There are different types of multistep problems.
- There are many 21st century tools to teach word problems.
Summary
Schema-based problem solving is a framework that is used to teach
word problems (Carpenter et al., 2014). Many educators did not learn
word problems from this framework and need to take the time to
understand them so that they can better teach them. Students should
learn to think about the structure and type of problem so they can set
it up accordingly. Students should also focus on how many steps the
problem involves so that they can prepare for that in the planning and
double-check all the parts in the end. There are many great resources
to teach problem solving and to practice problems these days that are
free and valuable.
Reflection Questions
- Do you presently teach with the word problem types in mind?
- Do you presently get students to think about the steps involved in
the word problem? If so, how do you currently do it? If not, how
might this help? - Do you use technology to teach and practice word problems?
- What are your biggest takeaways from this chapter?