Basic Calculation Steps
Lesson
Topic Index | Grade 6 Math | Intermediate Test Prep | StudyZone

 

In most math lessons today, you are asked to not only solve the problem, but also to explain your answer.  In this lesson you will learn what that means!

 

Basically you need to :
  •  use descriptive MATH words, and
  •   describe it in a logical and clear sequence (order). 

 

What are these descriptive MATH words?

Let's go through what needs to be described and see if a math word is there!

 

to describe:

MATH WORDS

the processes (verbs)

add, subtract, multiply, divide

the parts (nouns)

addend, divisor, factor, dividend, partial products

the answers (nouns)

sum, difference, product, quotient, an average

the methods involved (more verbs)

combining, ordering, averaging,  estimating, rounding

the descriptive words
(adjectives)

greater than, less than, smaller, larger, first, second, equal to, one half, longer, same

other good Math words

reciprocals,  fraction, decimal, equivalent, estimate, parallel, perpendicular, rate, percent

the tools used: (nouns)

ruler, protractor, straight edge, compass, blocks

 

What words show a logical and clear sequence (order)?

Let's examine some ORDER words. (Think of how you would SAY it, and probably that is the way it should be written also.)

 

to describe:

MATH WORDS

order of events:

first, second, third, fourth, etc.
relationship of events last, after, before, then, next

 

Let's see an example:

 
Is it possible to find a ratio that is equal to ¾, 3 to 4, and 3:4?  Explain.
 
Yes, it is possible. First, multiply 3 and 4 by the same number and then you get equivalent fractions, or ratios.

Look at the MATH words we used in that small explanation!  first, multiply, same, equivalent, fractions, ratios.  Some of the words are for sequence, and some are used just as correct math terms.

Ready to Practice?

 
Topic Index | Grade 6 Math | Intermediate Test Prep | StudyZone

Created by Mary Jane Cowell
Update by Carol Carroll
Copyright © 2001-06 Oswego City School District