Mathematical Reasoning

Everyone has the potential to understand mathematics.  They use it in their everyday. Mathematics is the universal language that helps the world make sense.  It is important that you as a student be confident and rely in your thinking.  You should be familiar with equations and measurements.  Mathematical reasoning is just using math concepts to solve problems in your everyday life. You do not need to memorize every single formula,  but you do need to understand (conceptualize) how they are used and why.  There is always a reason or a pattern to be found in math.

Most students have trouble with word problems because they do not know where to start.  Lets analyze 3 simple questions that will help you with this isssue.

1. What are they asking for ?
2. What do I have?
3. What formula do I need to use?

These simple questions can make a word problems seem easy.  

Let's practice with the following word problem.  

Mary had 3 corrals and in each she had 7 sheep.  How many sheep did Mary have?

What are they asking for??  How many sheep

What do I have??   3 corrals with 7 sheep in each

What formula do Use??  multiplication

You put it all together and its  3 x7 = 21

Review the link below for more practice.

Word Problems Links to an external site.