Weight Word Problem Worksheets
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Free printable and online math worksheets to help students learn how to solve one-step word problems involving metric weights. Solving weight word problem worksheets involves understanding the information provided, identifying the key details, choosing the appropriate mathematical operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division), and solving for the unknown.
- Begin by carefully reading the word problem. Identify the quantities involved, the units of measurement, and the relationships between them.
- Clearly identify what is given in the problem and what you need to find. This includes identifying the weights of objects, people, or substances.
- Pay attention to the units of measurement used in the problem. Whether it’s in kilograms, grams, or another unit, make sure you understand and convert if necessary.
- Based on the information provided, decide which mathematical operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division) is needed to solve the problem.
- Translate the information into a mathematical equation or expression or use tape diagrams as a visual tool. This may involve adding weights, subtracting weights, finding the difference between two weights, or using other operations.
- Execute the plan and perform the necessary calculations. Be sure to use the correct mathematical operations and units of measurement.
- After finding a solution, check if it makes sense in the context of the problem. Ensure that the units are consistent, and the answer aligns with the information provided.
- Express the answer clearly in a sentence or statement that answers the question posed in the word problem.
Solving weight word problems requires a combination of mathematical skills, understanding of units of measurement, and critical thinking. Regular practice with a variety of problems can help students develop proficiency in solving such word problems.
Then, practice the following worksheets.
Click on the following worksheet to get a printable pdf document. Scroll down the page for more Weight Word Problem Worksheets .
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More Weight Word Problem Worksheets
Printable (Answers on the second page) Weight Word Problem Worksheet #1 Weight Word Problem Worksheet #2 Weight Word Problem Worksheet #3
Online Metric Mass Word Problems
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Problems Based on Average
Here we will learn to solve the three important types of word problems based on average. The questions are mainly based on average or mean, weighted average and average speed.
How to solve average word problems?
To solve various problems we need to follow the uses of the formula for calculating arithmetic mean.
Average = (Sums of the observations)/(Number of observations)
Worked-out problems based on average:
1. The mean weight of a group of seven boys is 56 kg. The individual weights (in kg) of six of them are 52, 57, 55, 60, 59 and 55. Find the weight of the seventh boy.
Mean weight of 7 boys = 56 kg.
Total weight of 7 boys = (56 × 7) kg = 392 kg.
Total weight of 6 boys = (52 + 57 + 55 + 60 + 59 + 55) kg
Weight of the 7th boy = (total weight of 7 boys) - (total weight of 6 boys)
= (392 - 338) kg
Hence, the weight of the seventh boy is 54 kg.
2 . A cricketer has a mean score of 58 runs in nine innings. Find out how many runs are to be scored by him in the tenth innings to raise the mean score to 61.
Mean score of 9 innings = 58 runs.
Total score of 9 innings = (58 x 9) runs = 522 runs.
Required mean score of 10 innings = 61 runs.
Required total score of 10 innings = (61 x 10) runs = 610 runs.
Number of runs to be scored in the 10th innings
= (total score of 10 innings) - (total score of 9 innings)
= (610 -522) = 88.
Hence, the number of runs to be scored in the 10th innings = 88.
3. The mean of five numbers is 28. If one of the numbers is excluded, the mean gets reduced by 2. Find the excluded number.
Mean of 5 numbers = 28.
Sum of these 5 numbers = (28 x 5) = 140.
Mean of the remaining 4 numbers = (28 - 2) =26.
Sum of these remaining 4 numbers = (26 × 4) = 104.
Excluded number
= (sum of the given 5 numbers) - (sum of the remaining 4 numbers)
= (140 - 104)
= 36. Hence, the excluded number is 36.
4 . The mean weight of a class of 35 students is 45 kg. If the weight of the teacher be included, the mean weight increases by 500 g. Find the weight of the teacher.
Mean weight of 35 students = 45 kg.
Total weight of 35 students = (45 × 35) kg = 1575 kg.
Mean weight of 35 students and the teacher (45 + 0.5) kg = 45.5 kg.
Total weight of 35 students and the teacher = (45.5 × 36) kg = 1638 kg.
Weight of the teacher = (1638 - 1575) kg = 63 kg.
Hence, the weight of the teacher is 63 kg.
5. The average height of 30 boys was calculated to be 150 cm. It was detected later that one value of 165 cm was wrongly copied as 135 cm for the computation of the mean. Find the correct mean.
Calculated average height of 30 boys = 150 cm.
Incorrect sum of the heights of 30 boys
= (150 × 30)cm
Correct sum of the heights of 30 boys
= (incorrect sum) - (wrongly copied item) + (actual item)
= (4500 - 135 + 165) cm
Correct mean = correct sum/number of boys
= (4530/30) cm
Hence, the correct mean height is 151 cm.
6. The mean of 16 items was found to be 30. On rechecking, it was found that two items were wrongly taken as 22 and 18 instead of 32 and 28 respectively. Find the correct mean.
Calculated mean of 16 items = 30.
Incorrect sum of these 16 items = (30 × 16) = 480.
Correct sum of these 16 items
= (incorrect sum) - (sum of incorrect items) + (sum of actual items)
= [480 - (22 + 18) + (32 + 28)]
Therefore, correct mean = 500/16 = 31.25.
Hence, the correct mean is 31.25.
7. The mean of 25 observations is 36. If the mean of the first observations is 32 and that of the last 13 observations is 39, find the 13th observation.
Mean of the first 13 observations = 32.
Sum of the first 13 observations = (32 × 13) = 416.
Mean of the last 13 observations = 39.
Sum of the last 13 observations = (39 × 13) = 507.
Mean of 25 observations = 36.
Sum of all the 25 observations = (36 × 25) = 900.
Therefore, the 13th observation = (416 + 507 - 900) = 23.
Hence, the 13th observation is 23.
8. The aggregate monthly expenditure of a family was $ 6240 during the first 3 months, $ 6780 during the next 4 months and $ 7236 during the last 5 months of a year. If the total saving during the year is $ 7080, find the average monthly income of the family.
Total expenditure during the year
= $[6240 × 3 + 6780 × 4 + 7236 × 5]
= $ [18720 + 27120 + 36180]
Total income during the year = $ (82020 + 7080) = $ 89100.
Average monthly income = (89100/12) = $7425.
Hence, the average monthly income of the family is $ 7425.
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20 Effective Math Strategies To Approach Problem-Solving
Katie Keeton
Math strategies for problem-solving help students use a range of approaches to solve many different types of problems. It involves identifying the problem and carrying out a plan of action to find the answer to mathematical problems.
Problem-solving skills are essential to math in the general classroom and real-life. They require logical reasoning and critical thinking skills. Students must be equipped with strategies to help them find solutions to problems.
This article explores mathematical problem solving strategies, logical reasoning and critical thinking skills to help learners with solving math word problems independently in real-life situations.
What are problem-solving strategies?
Problem-solving strategies in math are methods students can use to figure out solutions to math problems. Some problem-solving strategies:
- Draw a model
- Use different approaches
- Check the inverse to make sure the answer is correct
Students need to have a toolkit of math problem-solving strategies at their disposal to provide different ways to approach math problems. This makes it easier to find solutions and understand math better.
Strategies can help guide students to the solution when it is difficult ot know when to start.
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The ultimate guide to problem solving techniques
Download these ready-to-go problem solving techniques that every student should know. Includes printable tasks for students including challenges, short explanations for teachers with questioning prompts.
20 Math Strategies For Problem-Solving
Different problem-solving math strategies are required for different parts of the problem. It is unlikely that students will use the same strategy to understand and solve the problem.
Here are 20 strategies to help students develop their problem-solving skills.
Strategies to understand the problem
Strategies that help students understand the problem before solving it helps ensure they understand:
- The context
- What the key information is
- How to form a plan to solve it
Following these steps leads students to the correct solution and makes the math word problem easier .
Here are five strategies to help students understand the content of the problem and identify key information.
1. Read the problem aloud
Read a word problem aloud to help understand it. Hearing the words engages auditory processing. This can make it easier to process and comprehend the context of the situation.
2. Highlight keywords
When keywords are highlighted in a word problem, it helps the student focus on the essential information needed to solve it. Some important keywords help determine which operation is needed. For example, if the word problem asks how many are left, the problem likely requires subtraction. Ensure students highlight the keywords carefully and do not highlight every number or keyword. There is likely irrelevant information in the word problem.
3. Summarize the information
Read the problem aloud, highlight the key information and then summarize the information. Students can do this in their heads or write down a quick summary. Summaries should include only the important information and be in simple terms that help contextualize the problem.
4. Determine the unknown
A common problem that students have when solving a word problem is misunderstanding what they are solving. Determine what the unknown information is before finding the answer. Often, a word problem contains a question where you can find the unknown information you need to solve. For example, in the question ‘How many apples are left?’ students need to find the number of apples left over.
5. Make a plan
Once students understand the context of the word problem, have dentified the important information and determined the unknown, they can make a plan to solve it. The plan will depend on the type of problem. Some problems involve more than one step to solve them as some require more than one answer. Encourage students to make a list of each step they need to take to solve the problem before getting started.
Strategies for solving the problem
1. draw a model or diagram.
Students may find it useful to draw a model, picture, diagram, or other visual aid to help with the problem solving process. It can help to visualize the problem to understand the relationships between the numbers in the problem. In turn, this helps students see the solution.
![maths weight problem solving math problem that needs a problem solving strategy](https://thirdspacelearning.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Problem-solving-question-1.png)
Similarly, you could draw a model to represent the objects in the problem:
![maths weight problem solving math problem requiring problem solving](https://thirdspacelearning.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/problem-solving-question-2.png)
2. Act it out
This particular strategy is applicable at any grade level but is especially helpful in math investigation in elementary school . It involves a physical demonstration or students acting out the problem using movements, concrete resources and math manipulatives . When students act out a problem, they can visualize and contectualize the word problem in another way and secure an understanding of the math concepts. The examples below show how 1st-grade students could “act out” an addition and subtraction problem:
The problem | How to act out the problem |
Gia has 6 apples. Jordan has 3 apples. How many apples do they have altogether? | Two students use counters to represent the apples. One student has 6 counters and the other student takes 3. Then, they can combine their “apples” and count the total. |
Michael has 7 pencils. He gives 2 pencils to Sarah. How many pencils does Michael have now? | One student (“Michael”) holds 7 pencils, the other (“Sarah”) holds 2 pencils. The student playing Michael gives 2 pencils to the student playing Sarah. Then the students count how many pencils Michael is left holding. |
3. Work backwards
Working backwards is a popular problem-solving strategy. It involves starting with a possible solution and deciding what steps to take to arrive at that solution. This strategy can be particularly helpful when students solve math word problems involving multiple steps. They can start at the end and think carefully about each step taken as opposed to jumping to the end of the problem and missing steps in between.
For example,
![maths weight problem solving problem solving math question 1](https://thirdspacelearning.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/problem-solving-question-3.png)
To solve this problem working backwards, start with the final condition, which is Sam’s grandmother’s age (71) and work backwards to find Sam’s age. Subtract 20 from the grandmother’s age, which is 71. Then, divide the result by 3 to get Sam’s age. 71 – 20 = 51 51 ÷ 3 = 17 Sam is 17 years old.
4. Write a number sentence
When faced with a word problem, encourage students to write a number sentence based on the information. This helps translate the information in the word problem into a math equation or expression, which is more easily solved. It is important to fully understand the context of the word problem and what students need to solve before writing an equation to represent it.
5. Use a formula
Specific formulas help solve many math problems. For example, if a problem asks students to find the area of a rug, they would use the area formula (area = length × width) to solve. Make sure students know the important mathematical formulas they will need in tests and real-life. It can help to display these around the classroom or, for those who need more support, on students’ desks.
Strategies for checking the solution
Once the problem is solved using an appropriate strategy, it is equally important to check the solution to ensure it is correct and makes sense.
There are many strategies to check the solution. The strategy for a specific problem is dependent on the problem type and math content involved.
Here are five strategies to help students check their solutions.
1. Use the Inverse Operation
For simpler problems, a quick and easy problem solving strategy is to use the inverse operation. For example, if the operation to solve a word problem is 56 ÷ 8 = 7 students can check the answer is correct by multiplying 8 × 7. As good practice, encourage students to use the inverse operation routinely to check their work.
2. Estimate to check for reasonableness
Once students reach an answer, they can use estimation or rounding to see if the answer is reasonable. Round each number in the equation to a number that’s close and easy to work with, usually a multiple of ten. For example, if the question was 216 ÷ 18 and the quotient was 12, students might round 216 to 200 and round 18 to 20. Then use mental math to solve 200 ÷ 20, which is 10. When the estimate is clear the two numbers are close. This means your answer is reasonable.
3. Plug-In Method
This method is particularly useful for algebraic equations. Specifically when working with variables. To use the plug-in method, students solve the problem as asked and arrive at an answer. They can then plug the answer into the original equation to see if it works. If it does, the answer is correct.
![maths weight problem solving Problem solving math problem 2](https://thirdspacelearning.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/problem-solving-question-4.png)
If students use the equation 20m+80=300 to solve this problem and find that m = 11, they can plug that value back into the equation to see if it is correct. 20m + 80 = 300 20 (11) + 80 = 300 220 + 80 = 300 300 = 300 ✓
4. Peer Review
Peer review is a great tool to use at any grade level as it promotes critical thinking and collaboration between students. The reviewers can look at the problem from a different view as they check to see if the problem was solved correctly. Problem solvers receive immediate feedback and the opportunity to discuss their thinking with their peers. This strategy is effective with mixed-ability partners or similar-ability partners. In mixed-ability groups, the partner with stronger skills provides guidance and support to the partner with weaker skills, while reinforcing their own understanding of the content and communication skills. If partners have comparable ability levels and problem-solving skills, they may find that they approach problems differently or have unique insights to offer each other about the problem-solving process.
5. Use a Calculator
A calculator can be introduced at any grade level but may be best for older students who already have a foundational understanding of basic math operations. Provide students with a calculator to allow them to check their solutions independently, accurately, and quickly. Since calculators are so readily available on smartphones and tablets, they allow students to develop practical skills that apply to real-world situations.
Step-by-step problem-solving processes for your classroom
In his book, How to Solve It , published in 1945, mathematician George Polya introduced a 4-step process to solve problems.
Polya’s 4 steps include:
- Understand the problem
- Devise a plan
- Carry out the plan
Today, in the style of George Polya, many problem-solving strategies use various acronyms and steps to help students recall.
Many teachers create posters and anchor charts of their chosen process to display in their classrooms. They can be implemented in any elementary, middle school or high school classroom.
Here are 5 problem-solving strategies to introduce to students and use in the classroom.
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How Third Space Learning improves problem-solving
Resources .
Third Space Learning offers a free resource library is filled with hundreds of high-quality resources. A team of experienced math experts carefully created each resource to develop students mental arithmetic, problem solving and critical thinking.
Explore the range of problem solving resources for 2nd to 8th grade students.
One-on-one tutoring
Third Space Learning offers one-on-one math tutoring to help students improve their math skills. Highly qualified tutors deliver high-quality lessons aligned to state standards.
Former teachers and math experts write all of Third Space Learning’s tutoring lessons. Expertly designed lessons follow a “my turn, follow me, your turn” pedagogy to help students move from guided instruction and problem-solving to independent practice.
Throughout each lesson, tutors ask higher-level thinking questions to promote critical thinking and ensure students are developing a deep understanding of the content and problem-solving skills.
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Problem-solving
Educators can use many different strategies to teach problem-solving and help students develop and carry out a plan when solving math problems. Incorporate these math strategies into any math program and use them with a variety of math concepts, from whole numbers and fractions to algebra.
Teaching students how to choose and implement problem-solving strategies helps them develop mathematical reasoning skills and critical thinking they can apply to real-life problem-solving.
READ MORE :
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- Tier 3 Interventions: A School Leaders Guide
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There are many different strategies for problem-solving; Here are 5 problem-solving strategies: • draw a model • act it out • work backwards • write a number sentence • use a formula
Here are 10 strategies for problem-solving: • Read the problem aloud • Highlight keywords • Summarize the information • Determine the unknown • Make a plan • Draw a model • Act it out • Work backwards • Write a number sentence • Use a formula
1. Understand the problem 2. Devise a plan 3. Carry out the plan 4. Look back
Some strategies you can use to solve challenging math problems are: breaking the problem into smaller parts, using diagrams or models, applying logical reasoning, and trying different approaches.
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13 Effective Learning Strategies: A Guide to Using them in your Math Classroom
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5 Math Mastery Strategies To Incorporate Into Your 4th and 5th Grade Classrooms
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x^{\msquare} | \log_{\msquare} | \sqrt{\square} | \nthroot[\msquare]{\square} | \le | \ge | \frac{\msquare}{\msquare} | \cdot | \div | x^{\circ} | \pi | |||||||||||
\left(\square\right)^{'} | \frac{d}{dx} | \frac{\partial}{\partial x} | \int | \int_{\msquare}^{\msquare} | \lim | \sum | \infty | \theta | (f\:\circ\:g) | f(x) |
▭\:\longdivision{▭} | \times \twostack{▭}{▭} | + \twostack{▭}{▭} | - \twostack{▭}{▭} | \left( | \right) | \times | \square\frac{\square}{\square} |
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x^{\msquare} | \log_{\msquare} | \sqrt{\square} | \nthroot[\msquare]{\square} | \le | \ge | \frac{\msquare}{\msquare} | \cdot | \div | x^{\circ} | \pi | |||||||||||
\left(\square\right)^{'} | \frac{d}{dx} | \frac{\partial}{\partial x} | \int | \int_{\msquare}^{\msquare} | \lim | \sum | \infty | \theta | (f\:\circ\:g) | f(x) |
- \twostack{▭}{▭} | \lt | 7 | 8 | 9 | \div | AC |
+ \twostack{▭}{▭} | \gt | 4 | 5 | 6 | \times | \square\frac{\square}{\square} |
\times \twostack{▭}{▭} | \left( | 1 | 2 | 3 | - | x |
▭\:\longdivision{▭} | \right) | . | 0 | = | + | y |
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- \mathrm{Lauren's\:age\:is\:half\:of\:Joe's\:age.\:Emma\:is\:four\:years\:older\:than\:Joe.\:The\:sum\:of\:Lauren,\:Emma,\:and\:Joe's\:age\:is\:54.\:How\:old\:is\:Joe?}
- \mathrm{Kira\:went\:for\:a\:drive\:in\:her\:new\:car.\:She\:drove\:for\:142.5\:miles\:at\:a\:speed\:of\:57\:mph.\:For\:how\:many\:hours\:did\:she\:drive?}
- \mathrm{The\:sum\:of\:two\:numbers\:is\:249\:.\:Twice\:the\:larger\:number\:plus\:three\:times\:the\:smaller\:number\:is\:591\:.\:Find\:the\:numbers.}
- \mathrm{If\:2\:tacos\:and\:3\:drinks\:cost\:12\:and\:3\:tacos\:and\:2\:drinks\:cost\:13\:how\:much\:does\:a\:taco\:cost?}
- \mathrm{You\:deposit\:3000\:in\:an\:account\:earning\:2\%\:interest\:compounded\:monthly.\:How\:much\:will\:you\:have\:in\:the\:account\:in\:15\:years?}
- How do you solve word problems?
- To solve word problems start by reading the problem carefully and understanding what it's asking. Try underlining or highlighting key information, such as numbers and key words that indicate what operation is needed to perform. Translate the problem into mathematical expressions or equations, and use the information and equations generated to solve for the answer.
- How do you identify word problems in math?
- Word problems in math can be identified by the use of language that describes a situation or scenario. Word problems often use words and phrases which indicate that performing calculations is needed to find a solution. Additionally, word problems will often include specific information such as numbers, measurements, and units that needed to be used to solve the problem.
- Is there a calculator that can solve word problems?
- Symbolab is the best calculator for solving a wide range of word problems, including age problems, distance problems, cost problems, investments problems, number problems, and percent problems.
- What is an age problem?
- An age problem is a type of word problem in math that involves calculating the age of one or more people at a specific point in time. These problems often use phrases such as 'x years ago,' 'in y years,' or 'y years later,' which indicate that the problem is related to time and age.
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Weight-Based Dosage Calculations Quiz
This quiz on weight-based dosage and calculations will test your ability to solve dosage and calculation problems of drugs that are based on a patient’s weight.
These weight-based calculation problems were designed to help you better understand how to apply basic conversions to advanced drug problems. In nursing school, you will be required to learn how to solve these types of problems, along with other drug and dosage calculations.
After you take this quiz, be sure to check out our other dosage and calculation quizzes with video teaching tutorials that go along with each quiz.
Demonstration on How to Solve Weight-Based Calculations
Weight-Based Calculations in Nursing
These dosage and calculation problems will test your ability on how to calculate weight-based drugs.
- B. 8.35 mL/hr
- C. 21.6 mL/hr
- D. 25 mL/hr
- A. 0.93 mL/dose
- B. 25 mL/dose
- C. 2 mL/dose
- D. 0.68 mL/dose
- A. 35.5 mL/hr
- B. 18.8 mL/hr
- C. 150 mL/hr
- D. 61 mL/hr
- A. 8.6 mL/hr
- B. 25 mL/hr
- C. 63.5 mL/hr
- D. 17.4 mL/hr
- A. 40.5 mL/hr
- B. 88.1 mL/hr
- C. 44.5 mL/hr
- D. 22.2 mL/hr
- A. 13.7 mL/hr
- B. 26.4 mL/hr
- C. 87 mL/hr
- A. 24 mL/dose
- B. 3 mL/dose
- C. 12.5 mL/dose
- D. 1.5 mL/dose
- A. 0.25 mL/dose
- B. 0.4 mL/dose
- D. 1.4 mL/dose
- A. 18.2 mL/hr
- B. 36 mL/hr
- D. 2.9 mL/hr
- A. 98 mL/hr
- B. 46.4 mL/hr
- C. 0.77 mL/hr
- D. 50 mL/hr
Weight-Based Calculation Practice Problems for Nurses
1. Doctor orders Dobutamine 4 mcg/kg/min IV infusion. The patient weighs 198 lb. You are supplied with a bag of Dobutamine that reads 250mg/250 ml. How many mL/hr will you administer?
2. Doctor orders Heparin 50 units/kg/dose subcutaneous daily. The patient weighs 93 kg. Heparin is supplied in a vial that reads 5,000 units/ml. How many mL/dose will you administer?
3. Doctor orders a Lidocaine infusion to be started at 30 mcg/kg/min. The patient weighs 298 lbs. You are supplied with a bag of Lidocaine that reads 4 mg/mL. How many mL/hr will you administer?
4. Doctor orders 20 units/kg/hr Heparin infusion to be started. The patient weighs 87 kg. You are supplied with a bag of Heparin that reads 100 units/mL. How many mL/hr will you administer?
5. Doctor orders Vancomycin 500 mg to infuse at 5 mg/kg/hr. The patient weighs 98 lbs. You are supplied with 500mg/100mL bag. How many mL/hr will you administer?
6. Doctor orders 9 units/kg/hr Heparin infusion. The patient weighs 76 kg. You’re supplied with a Heparin bag that reads 50 units/mL. How many mL/hr will you administer?
7. Doctor orders 12 mg/kg of Acyclovir. The patient weighs 115 lbs. Acyclovir is supplied as 100 mg/2mL. How many mL will you administer per dose?
8. Doctor orders 12 units/kg/hr Heparin infusion. The patient weighs 200 lbs. You’re supplied with a 30,000 units/500mL bag. What is the mL/hour rate?
9. Doctor orders 10 mcg/kg/min of a Dopamine infusion. The patient weighs 170 lbs. Dopamine is supplied as 500 mg/500mL. How many mL/hr will you administer?
10. Doctor orders 2 mg/kg of Lovenox subcutaneous daily. Patient weighs 155 lbs. You are supplied with a Lovenox syringe that reads 40 mg/0.4 mL. How many mL/dose will you administer?
Answer Key:
1. 21.6 mL/hr 2. 0.93 mL/dose 3. 61.2 mL/hr 4. 17.4 mL/hr 5. 44.5 mL/hr 6. 13.7 mL/hr 7. 12.5 mL/dose 8. 18.2 mL/hr 9. 46.4 mL/hr 10. 1.4 mL/dose
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- Physics Formulas
Weight Formula
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Weight is not anything but the force gravity experiences. It is represented by W and Newton is its SI unit. It is articulated as the product of mass and acceleration due to gravity. So the weight of a given object will show variation according to the gravity in that particular space. So, objects with similar mass appear in different weights across different planets.
Formula of Weight
The formula for weight is articulated as,
W=mg
- Weight of the object is W
- Mass of the object is m
- Acceleration due to gravity is g
Solved Examples
Numerical associated to weight calculations are provided underneath:
Problem 1: Compute the weight of a body on the moon if the mass is 60Kg? g is given as 1.625 m/s 2 . Answer :
It is known that, m = 60 kg and
g = 1.625 m/s 2
Formula for weight is, W = mg W = 60×1.625 W = 97.5 N
Problem 2: Compute the weight of a body on earth whose mass is 25 kg? Answer :
It is known that, m = 25 kg and
g = 9.8 m/s 2
Formula for weight is, W = mg W = 25×9.8 W = 245 N
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Measurement word problems.
Below are our grade 5 word problems worksheets involving the measurement of mass or weight . The worksheets are in customary units (ounces, lbs), metric units (gm, kg) or mixed units. No conversions of units between the two systems are needed.
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This problem solving activity has a measurement focus.
Dr Martin the chemist is weighing out some pills.
He has some 5g weights and some 7g weights.
Can he weigh exactly 38g of pills?
- Measure using grams.
- Apply addition to a measurement problem.
- Devise and use problem solving strategies to explore situations mathematically (be systematic, use equipment).
This problem gives students the chance to do some number investigations using combinations of 5 and 7. It also builds their experience making measurement calculations. This helps extend their experience and knowledge of number, and can also extend their experience of weights and the use of balance scales.
- Copymaster of the problem (English)
- Copymaster of the problem (Māori)
- Balance scales and weights (5g and 7g) (and/or a digital representative)
The Problem
Dr Martin the chemist is weighing out some pills. He has some 5g weights and some 7g weights. Can he weigh exactly 38g of pills?
![](http://nandemo.space/777/templates/cheerup1/res/banner1.gif)
Teaching Sequence
- Ask the students to find an object that they estimate weighs 20g. Check estimates on the scales.
- Discuss students' ideas about how they made their estimates of 20g (eg, weight of small chip packet = 18g, flake bar = 30g). What object in your desk would weigh close to 38g? How did you decide that? How do you use weights on a balance scale? How do you use these kitchen scales? What else could we use to measure these things?
- Pose the problem.
- As the students work on the problem in pairs, ask questions that focus their understanding of the size of grams. Encourage them to write their measurements with the correct unit (g - grams).
- Focus their thinking on working systematically by asking questions about the way that they are keeping track of their work. What are you doing? How will you share what you have done with others in the class? How are you recording your measurements? How do you know that you are on the right track?
- Share solutions
Extension
Can the chemist weigh out 52g ? Can this be done in more than one way?
38 is not exactly divisible by 5 or 7. Hence both 5g and 7g weights are needed. 38 – 7 = 31, 38 – 2 x 7 = 24, and 38 – 3 x 7 = 17 are not divisible by 5. However, 38 – 4 x 7 = 10 = 2 x 5. So Dr Martin can use four 7g weights and two 5g weights.
Solution to the Extension
(9 x 5, 1 x 7 ) or (6 x 7, 2 x 5)
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The Complete Guide to SAT Math Word Problems
![maths weight problem solving feature_words-1](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/feature_words-1.jpg?width=498&name=feature_words-1.jpg)
A significant portion of the total digital SAT Math section will be word problems, meaning you'll need to create your own visuals and equations to solve for your answers. Though the actual math topics can vary, SAT word problems share a few commonalities, and we’re here to walk you through how to best solve them.
This post will be your complete guide to SAT Math word problems. We'll cover how to translate word problems into equations and diagrams, the different types of math word problems you’ll see on the test, and how to go about solving your word problems on test day.
Feature Image: Antonio Litterio /Wikimedia
What Are SAT Math Word Problems?
A word problem is any math problem based mostly or entirely on a written description. You will not be provided with an equation, diagram, or graph on a word problem and must instead use your reading skills to translate the words of the question into a workable math problem. Once you do this, you can then solve it.
You will be given word problems on the digital SAT Math section for a variety of reasons. For one, word problems test your reading comprehension and your ability to visualize information.
Secondly, these types of questions allow test makers to ask questions that'd be impossible to ask with just a diagram or an equation. For instance, if a math question asks you to fit as many small objects into a larger one as is possible, it'd be difficult to demonstrate and ask this with only a diagram.
Translating Math Word Problems Into Equations or Drawings
In order to translate your SAT word problems into actionable math equations you can solve, you’ll need to understand and know how to utilize some key math terms. Whenever you see these words, you can translate them into the proper mathematical action.
For instance, the word "sum" means the value when two or more items are added together. So if you need to find the sum of a and b , you’ll need to set up your equation like this: a+b.
Also, note that many mathematical actions have more than one term attached, which can be used interchangeably.
Here is a chart with all the key terms and symbols you should know for SAT Math word problems:
Sum, increased by, added to, more than, total of | + |
Difference, decreased by, less than, subtracted from | − |
Product, times, __ times as much, __ times as many (a number, e.g., “three times as many”) | * or x |
Divided by, per, __ as many, __ as much (a fraction, e.g., “one-third as much”) | / or ÷ |
Equals, is, are, equivalent | = |
Is less than | < |
Is greater than | > |
Is less than or equal to | ≤ |
Is greater than or equal to | ≥ |
Now, let's look at these math terms in action using a few official examples:
![maths weight problem solving body_sat_math_sample_question_1](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_sat_math_sample_question_1.png?width=499&name=body_sat_math_sample_question_1.png)
We can solve this problem by translating the information we're given into algebra. We know the individual price of each salad and drink, and the total revenue made from selling 209 salads and drinks combined. So let's write this out in algebraic form.
We'll say that the number of salads sold = S , and the number of drinks sold = D . The problem tells us that 209 salads and drinks have been sold, which we can think of as this:
S + D = 209
Finally, we've been told that a certain number of S and D have been sold and have brought in a total revenue of 836 dollars and 50 cents. We don't know the exact numbers of S and D , but we do know how much each unit costs. Therefore, we can write this equation:
6.50 S + 2 D = 836.5
We now have two equations with the same variables ( S and D ). Since we want to know how many salads were sold, we'll need to solve for D so that we can use this information to solve for S . The first equation tells us what S and D equal when added together, but we can rearrange this to tell us what just D equals in terms of S :
Now, just subtract S from both sides to get what D equals:
D = 209 − S
Finally, plug this expression in for D into our other equation, and then solve for S :
6.50 S + 2(209 − S ) = 836.5
6.50 S + 418 − 2 S = 836.5
6.50 S − 2 S = 418.5
4.5 S = 418.5
The correct answer choice is (B) 93.
![maths weight problem solving body_sat_math_sample_question_2](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_sat_math_sample_question_2.png?width=510&height=171&name=body_sat_math_sample_question_2.png)
This word problem asks us to solve for one possible solution (it asks for "a possible amount"), so we know right away that there will be multiple correct answers.
Wyatt can husk at least 12 dozen ears of corn and at most 18 dozen ears of corn per hour. If he husks 72 dozen at a rate of 12 dozen an hour, this is equal to 72 / 12 = 6 hours. You could therefore write 6 as your final answer.
If Wyatt husks 72 dozen at a rate of 18 dozen an hour (the highest rate possible he can do), this comes out to 72 / 18 = 4 hours. You could write 4 as your final answer.
Since the minimum time it takes Wyatt is 4 hours and the maximum time is 6 hours, any number from 4 to 6 would be correct.
![maths weight problem solving body_Latin](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_Latin.jpg?width=513&name=body_Latin.jpg)
Though the hardest SAT word problems might look like Latin to you right now, practice and study will soon have you translating them into workable questions.
Typical SAT Word Problems
Word problems on the SAT can be grouped into three major categories:
- Word problems for which you must simply set up an equation
- Word problems for which you must solve for a specific value
- Word problems for which you must define the meaning of a value or variable
Below, we look at each world problem type and give you examples.
Word Problem Type 1: Setting Up an Equation
This is a fairly uncommon type of SAT word problem, but you’ll generally see it at least once on the Math section. You'll also most likely see it first on the section.
For these problems, you must use the information you’re given and then set up the equation. No need to solve for the missing variable—this is as far as you need to go.
Almost always, you’ll see this type of question in the first several questions on the SAT Math section, meaning that the College Board consider these questions easy. This is due to the fact that you only have to provide the setup and not the execution.
![maths weight problem solving SATmath](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/SATmath.jpg?width=441&height=307&name=SATmath.jpg)
It's stated that the vet recommends that, every day, the rabbit eat 25 calories per pound that it weighs, plus an additional 11 calories.
Let's put this in terms of x. If a rabbit weighs x pounds, then multiplying its weight in pounds by 25 calories yields 25x calories.
Adding the additional 11 calories gives us 25x + 11. The question states that c is the total number of calories that the vet recommends a rabbit eat each day.
Put this all together, and you get: c = 25x +11. This means Answer Choice D is the correct answer.
Word Problem Type 2: Solving for a Missing Value
The vast majority of SAT Math word problem questions will fall into this category. For these questions, you must both set up your equation and solve for a specific piece of information.
Most (though not all) word problem questions of this type will be scenarios or stories covering all sorts of SAT Math topics , such as averages , single-variable equations , and ratios . You almost always must have a solid understanding of the math topic in question in order to solve the word problem on the topic.
![maths weight problem solving Scott selected 200 employees at random...SAT Math word problem](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/SATmath2-jpg.jpeg?width=392&height=272&name=SATmath2-jpg.jpeg)
Let's think about this problem in terms of x . If Scott has 400 employees, randomly selected 20 employees, then found that 16 of those 20 employees are enrolled in 3 professional development courses, then we know that 16/20 employees are in three courses, or 80% because 16/20 is 0.80 or 80/100.
Because the employees were selected randomly, the best way to estimate how many of the 400 total employees are enrolled in exactly three professional development courses this year is to multiply 400 x 0.8. This gives us 320.
Answer Choice B is the correct answer.
You might also get a geometry problem as a word problem, which might or might not be set up with a scenario, too. Geometry questions will be presented as word problems typically because the test makers felt the problem would be too easy to solve had you been given a diagram, or because the problem would be impossible to show with a diagram.
![maths weight problem solving body_SAT_word_problem_5](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_SAT_word_problem_5.png?width=467&name=body_SAT_word_problem_5.png)
This is a case of a problem that is difficult to show visually, since x is not a set degree value but rather a value greater than 55; thus, it must be presented as a word problem.
Since we know that x must be an integer degree value greater than 55, let us assign it a value. In this case, let us call x 56°. (Why 56? There are other values x could be, but 56 is guaranteed to work since it's the smallest integer larger than 55. Basically, it's a safe bet!)
Now, because x = 56, the next angle in the triangle—2 x —must measure the following:
Let's make a rough (not to scale) sketch of what we know so far:
![maths weight problem solving body_triangle_ex_1](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_triangle_ex_1.png?width=427&name=body_triangle_ex_1.png)
Now, we know that there are 180° in a triangle , so we can find the value of y by saying this:
y = 180 − 112 − 56
One possible value for y is 12. (Other possible values are 3, 6, and 9. )
Word Problem Type 3: Explaining the Meaning of a Variable or Value
This type of problem will show up at least once. It asks you to define part of an equation provided by the word problem—generally the meaning of a specific variable or number.
![maths weight problem solving newSATmath](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/newSATmath.jpg?width=437&height=338&name=newSATmath.jpg)
Let's break this question down.
The equation y - 5x = 6 represents the relationship between the number of suits that Kaylani made, x, and the total length of fabric that she purchased, y, in yards.
But what does the 6 represent? Let's get one of the variables by itself to see what the equation looks like then. Y is easier to isolate than x, so we'll do that.
Adding 5x to both sides of the equation gives us y = 5x + 6
Because Kaylani made x suits and used 5 yards of fabric to make each suit, 5x represents the total amount of fabric she used to make the suits. Because y represents the total length of fabric Kaylani purchased, then the equation y = 5x + 6 shows us that Kaylani purchased 5x yards of fabric to make the suits, plus an additional 6 yards of fabric.
Therefore, the best interpretation of 6 in this question is that Kaylani purchased 6 yards more fabric than she used to make the suits.
The correct answer is Choice D.
![maths weight problem solving body_juggle](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_juggle.jpg?width=413&name=body_juggle.jpg)
To help juggle all the various SAT word problems, let's look at the math strategies and tips at our disposal.
![maths weight problem solving Disappointed with your scores? Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points? We've written a guide about the top 5 strategies you must use to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/360031/interactive-144977309594.png)
SAT Math Strategies for Word Problems
Though you’ll see word problems on the SAT Math section on a variety of math topics, there are still a few techniques you can apply to solve word problems as a whole.
#1: Draw It Out
Whether your problem is a geometry problem or an algebra problem, sometimes making a quick sketch of the scene can help you understand what exactly you're working with. For instance, let's look at how a picture can help you solve a word problem about a circle (specifically, a pizza):
![maths weight problem solving body_sat_math_sample_question_7_2](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_sat_math_sample_question_7_2.png?width=450&name=body_sat_math_sample_question_7_2.png)
If you often have trouble visualizing problems such as these, draw it out. We know that we're dealing with a circle since our focus is a pizza. We also know that the pizza weighs 3 pounds.
Because we'll need to solve the weight of each slice in ounces, let's first convert the total weight of our pizza from pounds into ounces. We're given the conversion (1 pound = 16 ounces), so all we have to do is multiply our 3-pound pizza by 16 to get our answer:
3 * 16 = 48 ounces (for whole pizza)
Now, let's draw a picture. First, the pizza is divided in half (not drawn to scale):
![maths weight problem solving body_sat_math_sample_question_7_diagram_1](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_sat_math_sample_question_7_diagram_1.png?width=211&name=body_sat_math_sample_question_7_diagram_1.png)
We now have two equal-sized pieces. Let's continue drawing. The problem then says that we divide each half into three equal pieces (again, not drawn to scale):
![maths weight problem solving body_sat_math_sample_question_7_diagram_2](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_sat_math_sample_question_7_diagram_2.png?width=211&name=body_sat_math_sample_question_7_diagram_2.png)
This gives us a total of six equal-sized pieces. Since we know the total weight of the pizza is 48 ounces, all we have to do is divide by 6 (the number of pieces) to get the weight (in ounces) per piece of pizza:
48 / 6 = 8 ounces per piece
The correct answer choice is (C) 8.
As for geometry problems, remember that you might get a geometry word problem written as a word problem. In this case, make your own drawing of the scene. Even a rough sketch can help you visualize the math problem and keep all your information in order.
#2: Memorize Key Terms
If you’re not used to translating English words and descriptions into mathematical equations, then SAT word problems might be difficult to wrap your head around at first. Look at the chart we gave you above so you can learn how to translate keywords into their math equivalents. This way, you can understand exactly what a problem is asking you to find and how you’re supposed to find it.
There are free SAT Math questions available online , so memorize your terms and then practice on realistic SAT word problems to make sure you’ve got your definitions down and can apply them to the actual test.
#3: Underline and/or Write Out Important Information
Even though the SAT is now digital, you're still allowed scratch paper to take notes and work out problems.
The key to solving a word problem is to bring together all the key pieces of given information and put them in the right places. Make sure you write out all these givens on the diagram you’ve drawn (if the problem calls for a diagram) so that all your moving pieces are in order.
One of the best ways to keep all your pieces straight is to underline your key information in the problem, and then write them out yourself before you set up your equation. So take a moment to perform this step before you zero in on solving the question.
#4: Pay Close Attention to What's Being Asked
It can be infuriating to find yourself solving for the wrong variable or writing in your given values in the wrong places. And yet this is entirely too easy to do when working with math word problems.
Make sure you pay strict attention to exactly what you’re meant to be solving for and exactly what pieces of information go where. Are you looking for the area or the perimeter? The value of x, 2x, or y?
It’s always better to double-check what you’re supposed to find before you start than to realize two minutes down the line that you have to begin solving the problem all over again.
#5: Brush Up on Any Specific Math Topic You Feel Weak In
You're likely to see both a diagram/equation problem and a word problem for almost every SAT Math topic on the test. This is why there are so many different types of word problems and why you’ll need to know the ins and outs of every SAT Math topic in order to be able to solve a word problem about it.
For example, if you don’t know how to find an average given a set of numbers, you certainly won’t know how to solve a word problem that deals with averages!
Understand that solving an SAT Math word problem is a two-step process: it requires you to both understand how word problems work and to understand the math topic in question. If you have any areas of mathematical weakness, now's a good time to brush up on them—or else SAT word problems might be trickier than you were expecting!
![maths weight problem solving body_ready-1](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_ready-1.png?width=353&name=body_ready-1.png)
All set? Let's go!
Test Your SAT Math Word Problem Knowledge
Finally, it's time to test your word problem know-how against real SAT Math problems:
Word Problems
![maths weight problem solving math1](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/math1.jpg?width=418&height=282&name=math1.jpg)
Answers: A, A, B, A
![maths weight problem solving body_sleepy-1](https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hubfs/body_sleepy-1.jpg?width=463&name=body_sleepy-1.jpg)
Aaaaaaaaaaand time for a nap.
Key Takeaways: Making Sense of SAT Math Word Problems
Word problems make up a significant portion of the SAT Math section, so it’s a good idea to understand how they work and how to translate the words on the page into a proper expression or equation. But this is still only half the battle.
Though you won’t know how to solve a word problem if you don’t know what a product is or how to draw a right triangle, you also won’t know how to solve a word problem about ratios if you don’t know how ratios work.
Therefore, be sure to learn not only how to approach math word problems as a whole, but also how to narrow your focus on any SAT Math topics you need help with. You can find links to all of our SAT Math topic guides here to help you in your studies.
What’s Next?
Want to brush up on SAT Math topics? Check out our individual math guides to get an overview of each and every topic on SAT Math . From polygons and slopes to probabilities and sequences , we've got you covered!
Running out of time on the SAT Math section? We have the know-how to help you beat the clock and maximize your score .
Been procrastinating on your SAT studying? Learn how you can overcome your desire to procrastinate and make a well-balanced prep plan.
Trying to get a perfect SAT score? Take a look at our guide to getting a perfect 800 on SAT Math , written by a perfect scorer.
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Courtney scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT in high school and went on to graduate from Stanford University with a degree in Cultural and Social Anthropology. She is passionate about bringing education and the tools to succeed to students from all backgrounds and walks of life, as she believes open education is one of the great societal equalizers. She has years of tutoring experience and writes creative works in her free time.
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10 Math Tasks for the Beginning of the Year
I have a rule about the first day of school: always do some math. No, that doesn't mean you have to start Lesson 1.1 as soon as students walk through the door, but it does mean that you should give your students a preview of the kind of thinking, reasoning, puzzling, and sense-making that they'll be doing in your class this year. Ideally, students will be so highly engaged that they barely even recognize they're doing math -- and certainly not the kind of math they're used to in school.
I also have an inordinate appreciation for what I call "interesting problems". These are tasks that use mathematical thinking and strategy, but don't require specific content knowledge like the formula for the equation of a circle or knowing what a composite function does. They are highly accessible, highly engaging, and have multiple solution strategies. The task itself can be explained in a few sentences and students can work on them for 20 minutes or 2 hours, depending on how far they want to take it. I scour the internet for tasks like these and have been collecting them for YEARS on my computer. I decided this was the year to bring them to the light and share them with the Math Medic community.
![maths weight problem solving](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4c04a2_66465000397e41e198c568c2d614c07f~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_56,h_72,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4c04a2_66465000397e41e198c568c2d614c07f~mv2.png)
These tasks don't require formal content knowledge, but they do help students engage in the mathematical practices and develop mathematical habits of mind, such as:
Looking for and making use of structure
Representing one's thinking
Working systematically
Visualizing
Developing a convincing argument
Conjecturing and generalizing
While I've curated this list with high school students in mind, many of these tasks could be done with middle schoolers or even with adults. The inspiration for these questions came from all over this great big internet, but have been adapted and reformatted for classroom use. So, without further ado, here are my (current) top 10 "interesting problems" to do on the first day of school.
10 Interesting Problems
![maths weight problem solving](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4c04a2_aacaee65b935442e810a4481b7fdf8cc~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_24,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4c04a2_aacaee65b935442e810a4481b7fdf8cc~mv2.png)
The Shopping Cart Task
A linear context in a LOT of disguise. Many solution strategies and great opportunities for representing one's thinking with a model or visual.
The Locker Problem
This one is set up with multiple parts providing lots of natural extensions. Thinking about a number's properties is key to this task! Make sure to print the 100s chart that is on page two on a separate sheet of paper. You can offer it to everyone or as an optional support.
![maths weight problem solving](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4c04a2_0aa1cb9064f94d509d8b603135a6fdc6~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_33,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4c04a2_0aa1cb9064f94d509d8b603135a6fdc6~mv2.png)
A Leg to Stand On
Loads of solution strategies on this one as well. Your teacher brain might scream system of equations with 4 variables, but you'll be surprised at the intuitive solutions your students find to solve this problem.
To Run or Not to Run?
Perfect after a summer of olympics. Students deal with rates in this problem, which is an important concept for any age group and relevant for any math course.
Four 4's
This one's been famous for a long time but I'm sharing it anyway because students do great with it!
![maths weight problem solving](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4c04a2_2df92bb960de435c8e8c4191baeabe2e~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_23,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4c04a2_2df92bb960de435c8e8c4191baeabe2e~mv2.png)
Page Turner
This one and the next two all encourage students to think systematically. There's a brute force solution but making use of structure will illuminate an easier way.
How Many 7's?
This is a good intro to thinking systematically and has a nice extension. I would use this in an Algebra 1 or Geometry course.
Oddball Numbers
This one is very difficult, so we recommend saving it for your Precalc or above courses.
This one is the most recent in my collection and I'm still thinking about the extension part!
Toothpick Challenge
I've often done this one with Geometry students because of the shapes and visual reasoning components.
Editable versions of these tasks can be found in this Google Drive folder .
How to use these in your classroom:
Pick ONE task for students to work on. We don't recommend giving multiple tasks back-to-back because it can start to feel like a worksheet, rather than a puzzle.
Solve the problem yourself first! We are purposefully not giving solutions here , so make sure you've wrestled with the problem yourself before handing it out to students.
Have students work on these in groups of 2, 3, or 4. Make sure they have enough materials available to hash out their ideas and represent their strategies. These are great to do on vertical non-permanent surfaces or poster paper.
Decide how long you will let students work. If doing this on the first day of school, we recommend about 20 minutes. If students don't have a solution by then, that is totally fine. A surprising number of them will keep thinking about the problem throughout the day or even at home.
Be ready with some extensions for groups who finish early, but make sure they understand what "done" means. Have they clearly communicated their strategy? Have they convinced themselves and others that their strategy will hold up? If giving an extension, make sure it's related to the given task, not just a different task. It's important that students are challenged in the depth of their reasoning, not in the quantity of problems.
If you're looking for more tasks like these, I highly recommend the NRICH site from the University of Cambridge.
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Manipulatives in Maths - A Classroom Guide for Teachers
![maths weight problem solving Three glass jars filled with different maths manipulatives like coloured coins, linking cubes and marbles](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/6dc08p2p/production/c44d872c92936beed65a4d536405e52b06f6ff59-1763x922.png/maths-mastery-behaviour-management?rect=0,1,1763,921&w=846&h=442&q=80&fit=min&auto=format)
Mathematical manipulatives are touted as essential tools for learning, but let's be honest—we've all experienced that moment of dread when we hand them out. Suddenly, your carefully planned lesson turns into chaos: One pupil starts building a fortress with the base ten blocks while another is hiding all the shiny counters.
Yet, despite these challenges, manipulatives play an important role in maths education. They bridge the gap between abstract concepts and tangible understanding, helping pupils grasp basic number sense. In fact, the National Curriculum emphasises their importance across all key stages, recognising that hands-on learning is vital for developing maths fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
So, how can we take advantage of these tools without losing control of the classroom? Let's explore the world of maths manipulatives—what they are, why they matter, and how to use them effectively in your primary school lessons.
What are manipulatives?
It can sound complicated, but manipulatives are simply hands-on tools that make abstract mathematical concepts concrete and visual . They're the building blocks, quite literally in some cases, that help pupils wrap their heads around tricky number ideas through good old-fashioned play, exploration, and modelling.
These learning aids come in all shapes and sizes, from the humble counter to the more elaborate Cuisenaire rods . Their key purpose? To give pupils something tangible to manipulate as they grapple with mathematical concepts. Whether it's using multilink cubes to understand place value or fraction circles to visualise parts of a whole, manipulatives help bridge the gap between 'maths on paper' and 'maths in real life'.
Common manipulatives you'll find in primary classrooms include:
Multilink cubes
Cuisenaire rods, base ten blocks, bead strings.
- Balance scales
Clock faces
Digit cards, hundred squares.
![maths weight problem solving a table strewn with many different sorts of maths manipulatives.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/6dc08p2p/production/8ec576c633d443a83ae802e5bef2a91843657510-1584x1042.png/maths-mastery-manipulatives-behaviour-management?w=1584&h=1042&q=80&fit=min&auto=format)
These tools align perfectly with the National Curriculum's aims of developing mathematical fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. By allowing pupils to physically interact with mathematical ideas, manipulatives help build a strong foundation for more complex concepts down the line. They're not just toys or distractions—they're powerful learning tools that can transform how your pupils understand and engage with maths.
Why are they important?
Over the past two decades, research has consistently shown the positive impact of using manipulatives in the classroom. A 2013 report published in the Journal of Educational Psychology identified "statistically significant results" when teachers used manipulatives compared with when they only used abstract maths symbols. This highlights the role that manipulatives play in supporting conceptual understanding and facilitating the progression from concrete to abstract thinking.
Alignment with CPA approach
The NCETM agrees that physical manipulatives should play a central role in maths teaching. "Manipulatives are not just for young pupils, and also not just for those who can't understand something. They can always be of help to build or deepen understanding of a mathematical concept."
This approach aligns perfectly with the concrete-pictorial-abstract (CPA) progression. Once children are confident using manipulatives or 'concrete' resources, they can then move onto pictorial representations or the 'seeing' stage. Here, visual representations of concrete objects are used to model problems. This stage encourages children to make a mental connection between the physical object they just handled and the abstract pictures , diagrams or models that represent the objects from the maths problem.
Enhance problem solving
But manipulatives do more than just support understanding—they're powerful tools for enhancing problem-solving skills. By allowing pupils to physically manipulate and visualise mathematical concepts, they can more easily devise strategies to tackle complex problems. This hands-on approach often leads to those 'aha!' moments we all love to see in our classrooms.
Support engagement
Moreover, manipulatives play an important role in fostering engagement and motivation. Let's face it—maths can sometimes seem dry and abstract to young learners. But introduce some colourful counters or interlocking cubes, and suddenly you've got a room full of eager mathematicians. This increased engagement is key to developing a positive attitude towards maths, which in turn supports long-term learning.
This deep understanding allows pupils to move beyond mere memorisation of facts and procedures, towards true mathematical fluency—where they can apply their knowledge flexibly and efficiently across a range of contexts.
In essence, manipulatives are not just helpful additions to our maths teaching toolkit—they're essential components in building a comprehensive, engaging, and effective mathematics education.
Types of manipulatives in primary mathematics
In this section, we'll break it common types of manipulatives into bite-sized pieces, just like we do for our pupils.
Physical manipulatives: the classics
These are the tangible, grab-them-with-your-hands resources that have been the backbone of maths classrooms for years. They're the ones that inevitably end up stuck between classroom seats and occasionally in someone's shoe.
Below is a list of common physical manipulatives in the classroom:
Ideal for teaching place value, addition, and subtraction with regrouping.
Fraction tiles
Excellent for comparing fractions and understanding equivalence.
Great for exploring 2D shapes, symmetry, and area.
![maths weight problem solving An example of two geoboards, one using plastic and another using wood with rubber bands making shapes on both](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/6dc08p2p/production/8b42f85efde7cc9dbb140fda3fc7af467b9fe181-1584x862.jpg/two-geoboars?w=1584&h=862&q=80&fit=min&auto=format)
Images: Wikipedia.org
Versatile tools for counting, measuring, and understanding volume.
Fantastic for developing number sense and exploring number relationships.
Essential for basic counting, sorting, and introducing simple addition and subtraction.
Useful for teaching multiplication, division, and fractions.
![maths weight problem solving A set of Cuisenaire rods from one to seven. Each number has the identical rod count inside](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/6dc08p2p/production/9fbec38ca96059fe80158aa45773ace217015e88-1584x862.jpg/cuisenaire-rods?w=1584&h=862&q=80&fit=min&auto=format)
Image: Pinterest
Helpful for developing number sense and practicing skip counting.
Useful for probability exercises and generating random numbers for various activities.
Great for pattern recognition, matching, and basic addition facts.
Essential for teaching time-telling and understanding intervals.
![maths weight problem solving Two examples of clock face ideas for the classroom. One using a hula hoop and hands, another using plates and printable clock faces](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/6dc08p2p/production/a46ff2b48df6d5cad0e9435a6cd61e23e8b6b148-1584x862.jpg/clock-faces?w=1584&h=862&q=80&fit=min&auto=format)
Images: Pinterest & Pinterest
Useful for place value activities and forming large numbers.
Excellent for identifying number patterns and supporting multiplication and division.
Virtual manipulatives: a new kind of tool
Manipulatives have gone digital! These are interactive, online versions of our physical favourites. Think of them as the maths equivalent of e-books.
Some popular virtual manipulatives include:
Online number lines
These number lines are zoomable, clickable, and free of the uneven lines that are often result of our hand-drawn versions.
Digital base ten blocks
All the functionality without the risk of losing pieces under desks.
Interactive fraction tools
Slice and dice up pieces in any way imaginable.
Whether physical or virtual, the best manipulative is the one that helps your pupils understand the concept at hand. Whether that's a handful of multilink cubes or a fancy online simulator, if it's making those mathematical lightbulbs flicker on, you're on the right track!
Implementing manipulatives in the classroom - let them play!
Whether you have a bumper pack of manipulatives, a shared bank of resources or your very own DIY versions, it's important to teach children how to use them independently. Here are some best practices for integrating manipulatives effectively into your lessons:
- Introduce gradually : Bring in manipulatives one at a time. If you don't have enough for each child, set up a 'maths table' where pupils can take turns exploring. This works particularly well with younger years where 'choosing tables' are common.
- Allow for exploration : Give children a chance to play with and explore the manipulatives before using them for instruction. Through this exploration, they can start to imagine how the resource might be useful.
- How could you use this?
- How might this help you when adding or subtracting?
- Why do you think they're different sizes - what could that represent?
- Model usage : Once children are familiar with a resource, introduce a simple maths problem and ask them to use the manipulatives to solve it. Model the problem-solving process step-by-step, then guide children through it.
- Scaffold learning : Start with highly structured activities, then gradually reduce support as pupils gain confidence. For instance, begin with direct instruction on how to use base ten blocks for place value, then move to guided practice, and finally independent problem-solving.
- Year 1: Using counters or number lines to support addition and subtraction within 20.
- Year 2: Use fraction tiles to help pupils recognise, find, name and write fractions of a length, shape, set of objects or quantity.
- Year 3: Utilising place value charts (physical or digital) so pupils can recognise 3-digit numbers (100s, 10s and 1s).
- Integrate into lesson plans : Don't treat manipulatives as an add-on. Instead, weave them into your lessons as essential tools for understanding. Plan specific points in your lessons where manipulatives will be most beneficial.
- Support diverse learners : Manipulatives can be particularly helpful for English Language Learners (ELLs) and pupils with learning disabilities. They provide a universal language of mathematics that transcends verbal communication barriers.
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Manipulatives across Key Stages 1 and 2
Next, let's breakdown more examples of manipulatives in the classroom by Key Stage.
Key Stage 1 (Years 1-2): Laying the foundations
In these early years, it's all about getting hands-on with numbers and shapes.
- Number and Place Value : Introduce counters, number lines, and base ten blocks. Pupils can observe how 10 ones form a 'ten stick', helping them grasp place value concepts.
- Addition and Subtraction : Utilise multilink cubes for hands-on learning. Pupils can physically join or separate cubes to represent addition and subtraction operations.
- Fractions : Fraction tiles can be effective tools for teaching fractions. They provide a visual and tactile representation of concepts like 'half' and 'quarter'.
- Geometry : Employ geoboards for creating 2-D shapes. Pupils can then be asked to match these shapes on a 3-D surface to enhance spatial understanding.
Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6): Progressing with Purpose
As our mathematicians-in-training grow, so does the sophistication of our manipulatives. We're not ditching the basics, just building on them.
- Multiplication and Division : Array cards and Cuisenaire rods are useful for these operations. For multiplying by 6, pupils can line up 6 rods of 4 to visualise the concept.
- Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages : Fraction circles can be used alongside decimal place value charts. The 100 square is effective for teaching percentages.
- Geometry : The geoboard is a helpful tool for teaching perimeter, area, and symmetry concepts in a hands-on manner.
- Statistics : Data can be represented using multilink cube bar charts or human pictograms, making statistics more engaging for pupils.
CPA Journey: From Concrete to Pictorial to Abstract
Remember, our end goal is for pupils to solve problems without relying on physical props. Here's how we might progress:
- Concrete : Pupils physically manipulate objects to solve a problem. For example, using counters to work out 5 + 3.
- Pictorial : They draw a picture or diagram to represent the problem. Our 5 + 3 might become five circles and three circles.
- Abstract : Finally, they use mathematical symbols and numbers alone. "5 + 3 = 8."
The beauty of this approach? Pupils can always 'go back' a stage if they're struggling with a new concept. Stuck on an abstract problem? Draw a picture! Need more practise? Grab those counters!
Remember, every child's journey through these stages is unique. Some might race through, others might linger longer at certain points. The key is to ensure they have a solid understanding at each stage before moving on.
![maths weight problem solving Moving from the concrete, to pictorial, to abstract stages](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/6dc08p2p/production/b9d2b00b308282a5f08ff492205672e7b73304a6-788x777.png/concrete-pictorial-abstract?w=788&h=777&q=80&fit=min&auto=format)
An example of moving from the concrete, to pictorial, to abstract stages.
Manipulative manners
Once you have introduced your resources, speak as a class and explain that they should come up with a set of rules for how they are treated and used. Giving children ownership over the manipulatives as well as the respect to make their own rules will make them feel accountable and lessen the likelihood of negative behaviours when using manipulatives. Write the rules up as a class and display them so they can be referred to.
Storing manipulatives
NRICH recommends children having access to manipulatives “Give open access to all the resources and allow the children free reign in choosing what to use to model any problem they may be tackling. I would make sure that children of all ages had this access from 3 to 11 years old and beyond.” While this is exactly what teachers would like to replicate in their classrooms, not all classes learn in the same way and this isn’t always achievable due to space, budgets and children’s prior experiences of manipulatives.
Once you have introduced a manipulative, decide as a class where you should store it . You know what works best for your class, so consider different options such as communal drawers, a maths table, individual packs or a collection of manipulatives for each table. Set clear rules around using and treating manipulatives to ensure they are not broken or lost. Additionally, you could create a monitor for each resource so the children can take ownership and make sure they stay tidy and accounted for.
![maths weight problem solving Images of examples of maths mastery areas and tables to use in your classroom](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/6dc08p2p/production/d5934900d446c531bc9f2b95771a71160675d446-1584x863.png/maths-mastery-tables-areas?w=1584&h=863&q=80&fit=min&auto=format)
Creating a classroom culture that uses manipulatives will aid children’s fluency and help develop their ability to solve problems, reason mathematically and share! If manipulatives are introduced in a considered and gradual way, with clear boundaries from an early age, children should see them as part of everyday learning and they will not be a novelty. They will be seen as tools instead of toys — and hopefully no more multilink towers!
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Maths — No Problem! Community Event Conference, 28 November at The Royal Society, London.
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