Sometimes it is difficult to solve a multi-step problem. The key to success is to plan and organize information.

Lisa buys 2 shirts for $14 each and a pair of sneakers for $48. How much change does she get if she pays with a $100 bill?   What You Think What You Do Read What are you asked to find?  Read the problem carefully. Plan How can I decide the order in which to work? Start by finding the total cost. Then find the amount of change. Solve Solve each part of the problem. cost: 2 x $14 = $28 $28 + $48 = $76 change: $100 - $76 = $24 Look Back Is the answer reasonable? Estimate to check. $14 is close to $15 and $48 is close to 50. 2 x $15 + 50 =  $30 + $50 = $80 $100 - $80 = $20 The estimate $20 is close to the answer $24. The answer is reasonable.

Facts: 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. = 8 hours 5 days in a 5-day week 5 x 8 = 40 hours Solution: Dan works 40 hours in a 5-day work week.

 

Example 2	This year, the school chess club includes 15 children, 20 teenagers, and 33 adults. Last year, there were 43 members in all.  By how much has the membership changed?
Facts: 15 + 20 + 33 = 68 68 - 43 = 25
Solution: Membership has increased by 25 members.

 

Remember: Read the problem carefully. Estimate to check your answer.

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