Choose a Strategy
 Lesson
 Topic Index | Grade 3 Math | Elementary Test Prep | StudyZone
There is more than one way
to solve a problem.
                   To solve a problem you need to follow
                             these important steps:
                        Step 1:  Understand the problem.
                       Step 2:  Make a plan.
                               This is were you choose the best strategy.
                       Step 3:  Carry out the plan.
                       Step 4:  Look Back.

A strategy is a plan that may be used to solve a problem.

Strategy: Choose the Operation
Number Sentence Definition

+

=

  Join sets or quantities.

-

=

  Separate, or take away, from a set. 
  Compare two sets or quantities. 
  Find part of a set. 
  Find how many more are needed.

x

=

  Join only equal sets or quantities.

÷

=

  Separate a set into equal groups.
  Share a set equally.
Example: Alex works at a gift  
 shop. She sold 5 small, 4 medium, and
 3 large shirts. How many shirts did
 she sell in all?		   Choose the operation;
     5 + 4 + 3 = 12  shirts

 

Another Strategy: Guess and Test
Problem: Frank's bank holds dimes and quarters. There are 4  
                                 more  dimes than quarters in the bank. The value of all  
                                 the coins is $2.85. How many quarters are in Frank's
                                 bank?
Quarter Value Dime Value Total Value Test
  6 quarters = $1.50   8 dimes = $0.80   $1.50 + $0.80 = $2.30   too low
  7 quarters = $1.75   11 dimes = $1.10   $1.75 + $1.10 = $2.85   correct

 

Remember: There is more than one way to solve a problem.

Click on the pig for practice.