Key Words for Choosing the Right Operation
Problem Solving Anchor Chart
Students often struggle with word problems not because they can’t compute, but because they aren’t sure which operation to use. These anchor charts and foldable organizers help students identify key words, analyze the situation, and choose the correct strategy with confidence.
Hover over each card to see all the keywords for that operation.
| + Addition | − Subtraction | × Multiplication | ÷ Division |
|---|---|---|---|
| sum, total, plus, more than, added to, combined, altogether, increased by |
difference, less, minus, fewer than, decreased by, reduced by, left |
product, times, twice, of, area, multiplied by, in all |
quotient, per, each, share, split, average, out of, ratio, divide equally |
A keyword appears — click which operation it signals! Score as many correct as you can.
Read each word problem. The keywords are highlighted to help you. Identify the operation, then solve!
Read each word problem and write the equation that represents it. Use n for the unknown. Then check your work!
Select the correct operation for each word problem.
Solve each word problem and type your answer.
Each problem requires more than one step. Solve carefully!
Display the anchor chart during problem solving lessons. Students can refer to it while working independently or in small groups.
Students add examples under each flap of the foldable organizer. Encourage them to write their own word problems using the key words.
Give students a set of key word cards and have them sort the words into the four operations. This helps them recognize patterns and understand that some words can signal more than one operation depending on context.
Read a short scenario aloud and have students hold up a card showing the operation they would use. This quick, engaging activity helps you assess understanding in real time.
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