Space Word Problems Starring Ratios and Proportions

April 1, 2009
Gr 2-4-Wingard-Nelson chooses subjects of high interest to children and capitalizes on that interest when constructing her word problems. For example, a problem in "Amusement Park" involves comparing the speeds of wooden and steel roller coasters, and in "Addition", readers are asked to figure out how many tarantulas have escaped from a cage. The author provides a logical list of problem-solving steps, instructs readers in searching for clue words, and describes pitfalls to avoid. She also offers alternative ways to solve problems, which is a most helpful feature as it facilitates different learning styles. The books are visually stimulating, employing varying colors and fonts that will help children zero in on essential information. Further reading includes downloadable worksheets that are guaranteed to be available through 2013.

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