Activity Name: Two-Step Word Problems

Grade/Subject: 3rd Grade Math

Curriculum Standard: MCC3.OA.8 Solve two-step word problems using the four operations.
Represent these problems using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity. Assess
the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies including
rounding.
NETS Standard: Creativity and Innovation- Students demonstrate creative thinking,
construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using
technology.
Technology Tools: Computers, Power Points
I believe that two-step math problems can be interesting and applicable to the students.
To make the students believe this as well, I will begin the lesson by presenting a real life
scenario. This real life scenario will address a situation when a two-step word problem would be
presented. For example, you and three of your friends are going to get ice cream. Two friends
have $10, and one has $5. How much money do they have in all? (2x10=20, 20+5=25). This
question has two steps, and can interest the students through the real life application of
purchasing ice cream. To incorporate technology into the introduction, I will create a video so
that the students can visualize the story and can see how the two-step math problem is solved. I
will then assign them into groups and give each of the groups a problem to solve. After they have
solved the problems, they will create a PowerPoint presentation to present the information to
their peers.
The students will be divided into groups with the task of solving a two-step math word
problem. They will be able to use small white boards to generate simple and quick solutions.
After the students have successfully solved the problem, they will create a PowerPoint
presentation. The presentation will present the word problem, the steps that the students went
through to solve the problem, and the solution. To help develop creativity further, the students
will act out the word problem when it is first presented in the PowerPoint. This will draw
immediate interest into the problem and help students incorporate their creativity into the word
problem.
I will help provide guidance to students who may have issues understanding the problem.
I will offer myself to explain things further. Students will also be able to ask questions when they
are creating their PowerPoint, and I will be aware that not all groups will be at equal levels of
technological skills. However, I expect that they will use me as a resource to help in areas that
they do not understand, so their end product should be efficient to meet the requirements.
Students will be evaluated in many ways. Initially, I will evaluate how relevant their skit
is to the question. If it is a true representation of the word problem, the students will receive full
credit for this portion of their grade. Their technological skills represented through their
PowerPoint presentation will be evaluated also. Smooth transition and a clear representation of
the problem will reflect that the students know how to use PowerPoint. The students
understanding of the math concepts will be evaluated through analyzing the work of the students.
Additionally, the students will be expected to find the correct answer to the problem.
Technology will be applied to develop students creativity through the groups creation of
PowerPoint presentations. This will allow them to analyze their work one step further by writing
it out on a presentation. It will generate creativity by allowing them to create a fun visual of the

problem and the work that is required to find the solution. A presentation will make the math
work more engaging and will help keep the interest of their peers while presenting the problem.