Translation of Word Problems into Numerical Expressions - JSS3 Mathematics Lesson Note

Word problems require converting a verbal description into a mathematical expression that can be solved.

Steps:

Identify Keywords: Look for words that indicate mathematical operations (e.g., sum, difference, product, quotient).

Determine the Variables: Identify the quantities involved and assign variables if necessary.

Construct the Expression: Translate the verbal description into a mathematical expression using appropriate symbols.

Examples:

Simple Addition:

Word Problem: "John has 5 apples, and he buys 3 more. How many apples does he have now?"

Numerical Expression: 

5+3

Solution: 

8 apples

Multiplication and Addition:

Word Problem: "A pack of 6 bottles costs $2 each. If you buy 3 packs, how much do you spend?"

Numerical Expression: 

6×3×2

Solution: 

36 dollars

Complex Problem with Variables:

Word Problem: "A rectangle's length is 4 more than its width. If the width is 

𝑤, what is the area of the rectangle?"

Numerical Expression: Length = 

𝑤+4, Area = 𝑤×(𝑤+4)

Solution: Area = 𝑤2+4𝑤