Wyoming Math 4.OA.3a
The Standard
Solve multi-step word problems posed with whole numbers, including problems in which remainders must be interpreted. Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity.
2023 Wyoming Mathematics Content and Performance Standards · Use the four operations with whole numbers to solve problems.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students decide which calculations a whole-number story needs and do them in order. They write an equation with a letter for the unknown and decide what any remainder means in the story.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students can solve each step and write an equation with a letter for the final answer. If 53 riders fill six eight-seat vans with five left over, they know a seventh van is needed.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may ignore a remainder when more groups are needed, or treat the remainder as another full group. They may stop after the first calculation or use a letter for a number already given.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: 46 campers need canoes that hold 4 people and cost $15 each. Find the total cost, write an equation using c for the cost, and explain the remainder.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs 53 counters and paper vans labeled '8 seats, $40'; have them fill vans and write an equation for the total cost.
Ask, 'If 53 students ride in vans with 8 seats each, why is the answer 7 vans rather than 6 R5?'
Use two task cards: '29 cookies, bags hold 6, $2 each' and '35 players, cars seat 8, $10 each'; swap equations.
Show a field trip bus quote: 98 students, 24 seats per bus, $120 per bus; ask groups to calculate the bill.
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Printable 4.OA.3a Worksheet
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Related Standards
- 7.EE.4b
Write and solve multi-step linear equations that include the use of the Distributive Property and combining like terms. Exclude equations that contain variables...
- 3.OA.8a
Represent these problems using equations with a symbol standing for the unknown quantity.
- 6.EE.6
Use variables to represent unknown numbers and write expressions when solving a real-world or mathematical problem.
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