Discussion+Web

Rationale:
I would use this strategy because I know students struggle with word problems. This strategy would encourage my students to explore the word problem and consider relevant and irrelevant information before trying to find a solution.

Course:
Algebra – The entire year. This strategy is implemented with ninth and tenth grade Algebra students who need to develop a strategy on solving word problems.

Diverse learners:
This strategy would mostly benefit all the types of learners. Visual – They will read the word problem and fill out the graphic organizer. Auditory – They will discuss the word problem with other students. Kinesthetic – They will be asked to move around the room forming different groups to learn with.

Procedure:
1. The teacher will prepare the students by modeling this strategy on a word problem. 2. The teacher will have student pair up with one other student. 3. The students should read the problem individually. 4. As a pair of students, they should work through the discussion web and fill out relevant and irrelevant columns. 5. The teachers will have the pair of students group with another pair of students to compare responses and then work together toward a solution. 6. Each group then should report to the whole class.

Potential Issues:
A problem that might occur is that there might be disagreements within a group. The teacher should be prepared to help monitor the discussions.

Materials:
Copy of