Introduction
Word problems can be challenging for many students, but with the right strategy, they can become more manageable. One effective strategy is the C.U.B.E.S. method, which stands for Circle the numbers, Underline the question, Box the keywords, Evaluate the steps, and Solve and check. This article will explain how to use the C.U.B.E.S. strategy to tackle word problems and improve problem-solving skills.
What is the C.U.B.E.S. Strategy?
The C.U.B.E.S. strategy is a step-by-step approach to solving word problems. It helps students break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. By following the C.U.B.E.S. method, students can identify important information, understand the question, and solve the problem effectively.
Step 1: Circle the numbers
The first step in the C.U.B.E.S. strategy is to circle the numbers in the word problem. This helps students identify the relevant numerical information needed to solve the problem. By focusing on the numbers, students can avoid getting overwhelmed by unnecessary details.
Step 2: Underline the question
After circling the numbers, students should underline the question in the word problem. This helps them understand what the problem is asking and guides them in determining the appropriate operations or steps to solve it.
Step 3: Box the keywords
Next, students should box the keywords in the word problem. Keywords are important words or phrases that provide clues about the operations or steps needed to solve the problem. By identifying and highlighting these keywords, students can better understand what the problem is asking and how to approach it.
Step 4: Evaluate the steps
Once the numbers are circled, the question is underlined, and the keywords are boxed, students should evaluate the steps needed to solve the problem. This involves determining the appropriate operations, formulas, or strategies to use based on the information provided in the word problem.
Step 5: Solve and check
The final step in the C.U.B.E.S. strategy is to solve the problem using the identified steps and check the solution. Students should perform the necessary calculations and verify that their answer makes sense in the context of the problem. They can also double-check their work to ensure accuracy.
Conclusion
The C.U.B.E.S. strategy is a useful tool for solving word problems. By following the steps of circling the numbers, underlining the question, boxing the keywords, evaluating the steps, and solving and checking, students can approach word problems with confidence and improve their problem-solving skills. With practice and patience, word problems can become less intimidating and more manageable for students.
