Mathematics, Operations (+, -, x, /, etc.), Problem Solving, Fractions

Grade 5- 8

Objective

Students use basic operations of subtracting, adding, multiplying or dividing fractions, decimals, and percents to solve word problems. They use this activity as a review of their fundamental skills.

Directions

Tell students that you will be going over the process of using basic operations to solve word problems. Complete Samples A and B as a class.
Sample A
Mrs. King bought a dozen muffins for the students in her classroom. If she bought, 1/2 of a dozen chocolate chip, 1/4 of a dozen apple cinnamon, and 1/4 dozen banana nut, how many of each muffin did she buy?
Hint: Remember that 1 dozen muffins = 12 muffins
First, calculate what fraction of the 1 dozen muffins is of what variety.
1/2 dozen chocolate chip = 6 chocolate chip muffins
1/4 dozen apple cinnamon = 3 apple cinnamon muffins
1/4 dozen banana nut = 3 banana nut muffins
Then, add the different types of muffins and see if they add up to a dozen muffins.
6 chocolate chip + 3 apple cinnamon + 3 banana nut = 12 muffins
Sample B
Kenny and Kendra each received $10 to spend at the movies. Kenny bought his ticket for $4.50 and then bought a small soda for $2.00 and popcorn for $2.50. How much money did Kenny spend, and did he have any money left? Kendra spent $4.50 for her ticket and then paid $1.75 for red licorice sticks and $2.00 for a small soda. How much money did Kendra spend, and did she have any money left?

Resources

• Word Problems Using Basic Operations activity sheets
• pencils