How to Help Students With Word Problems in Math—and Coach Teachers to Do the Same

If your students can calculate but collapse in math word problems, the issue often isn’t the numbers—it’s the structure. Many schools default to keyword hunts, graphic organizers, and “pick the operation” routines. But those tools can accidentally train students to guess instead of model what’s happening. The result: multi-step math problems feel like a maze. In This Episode, You’ll Learn Why “keywords/highlighters” often fail (and what they train students to do instead) How focusing on math problem types (join/separate/compare, fair share, measured, etc.) strengthens multi-step thinking What to assess when students miss word problems (structure breakdown, not just computation) How to build cumulative practice so word problems improve all year—not in one unit A simple, curriculum-anchored move leaders can run next week If word problems are your team’s pebble, this episode gives you a clean first step to build shared language, stronger instruction, and better student math outcomes—without adding another program. Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem-based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Page Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode : "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.

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How to Help Students With Word Problems in Math—and Coach Teachers to Do the Same is an episode from Making Math Moments That Matter by Kyle Pearce & Jon Orr.

This episode is 25:15 long.

This episode was published on Mar 5, 2026.

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