How can a word problem be translated into an algebraic expression or equation?
Any word problem can be broken down into words or word phrases. These individual elements have a counterpart in the language of mathematics. Keep an eye out for words and phrases that signify multiplication and division, such as “times,” “the product,” “separated into equal groups,” “divided evenly,” and so on. Often the solution required is stated as a question, such as “How many groups were there?” or “How much did she earn in all?” The question usually indicates the unknown number that can be represented by a variable. An expression or equation can be created by using the other information given in the word problem. • Why do operations have to be done in a certain order? Why can’t I just do them in order from left to right? Just like written and spoken languages, mathematical language has certain rules called the Order of Operations. Write this on the board: “Dog cat tree chased up the.” Ask students what the sentence tells you and what is wrong with it. Explain that just as we have
