So how do we incorporate literacy into Math? (We use word problems and answer the questions asked with complete sentences.) Here is a sample question of how we can do that in class. Literacy is a part of each subject in our curriculum. (Acquiring good reading skills will help you in interpreting word problems, like the sample problem provided below.) In the problem you will see some Math integrated into Physics. You will also observe fractions, a decimal, and units being used, along with a formula pyramid. As you progress through junior high and into high school, you will incorporate the skills you acquired in your Math classes and apply them into your Science classes as well.
TEN BASIC STEPS TO SOLVING PHYSICS PROBLEMS:
** TIP: >>>Make sure you line up all your steps as well as your equal signs!! **
1) UNDERLINE GIVENS in your word problem, including the unknown.
2) MAKE A SKETCH of what is being discussed in the problem and label it along with units.
3) LIST GIVENS from the problem. (These have been underlined in the sample below.)
4) LIST UNKNOWN VARIABLE.
5) CHOOSE FORMULA TO USE. Using a formula pyramid can be helpful. In this case you are searching for the time taken to travel a certain distance. Cover up the "t" in the formula pyramid and you are left with: distance divided by velocity. This is the formula you will use.
6) SUBSTITUTE GIVENS INTO FORMULA (with units).
7) CALCULATE
8) PROVIDE ANSWER (with units)
9) RESPOND TO QUESTION WITH A FULL SENTENCE.
10) CIRCLE YOUR ANSWER & CHECK YOUR WORK (to make sure that your answer makes sense).
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