Working with mathematical word problems

The lesson focuses on reading and decoding mathematical word problems. On the advice of her Assistant Principal, the teacher utilises Newman's Analysis for Error to help her students to work with word problems. The teacher ensures the students understand the problem, then the students independently determine what resources they will use to help them to solve it. The teacher also models problem-solving methods for students who need extra support. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the methods used.

Humpty Doo Primary School is a Northern Territory Government primary school situated 40km South-East of Darwin. The school has a student population that reflects the multicultural diversity of the surrounding community with a large number of families who speak English as a Second Language. 25% of students identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and a further 30% of the students have Vietnamese, Thai, Filipino, Japanese, Indonesian, Cambodian, Spanish, Dutch or Chinese cultural backgrounds. Humpty Doo Primary School has a priority to develop the social-emotional wellness and inclusion of all members within the school community. To support this priority, the school is committed to being an active KidsMatter school and Tribes Learning Community. Staff work collaboratively in teaching and learning hubs to develop curriculum programs responsive to the Australian Curriculum with a current focus on literacy improvement and the implementation of Visible Learning approaches.