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There are some important things that you can do to help yourself get the best score possible on the Ohio Math Achievement test. Here are some hot tips!

Skim across the entire problem.

1. Before you begin each problem, skim over the information provided, including any pictures, labels, charts, tables, diagrams, graphs, keys, headings, or subheadings. Is there a formula or equation? If so, read it, too! Next, skim through the text of the problem.

Read carefully, underlining or circling what is important.

2. Go back to the beginning of the problem, and this time read it carefully.  As you read, underline or circle important pieces of information and key words that tell you what the numbers mean. Summarize it in your head. If you aren’t sure what it says, just re-read it and try again.

What is the question?

3. Underline or circle key phrases and direction words that tell you what you need to do, find out, or answer.

•   Look at your key words and think about it. Have you seen a similar problem before? If so, how is this problem similar? How is it different?

•   What facts do you have?

•   What answers do you need to provide?
 

 Analyze the numbers.

4. To get a better understanding, think about the information or numbers provided. Would it help you to draw a picture? Would it help to make a list or grid of the numbers and label what they stand for? If so, do it!

Read the problem again to make sure you are on-track.

5. Read the problem carefully again (RTD2)! It will make more sense, and it will help you double-check what the numbers mean and which pieces of information you need to use.

Think about what would make sense.

6. Think of an estimate that would be reasonable before you start. What make sense?

 
Choose a strategy for solving the problem.

7. How have you solved similar problems in the past? Think what math symbols and key words mean.

Keys for Solving Math Problems
Addition	Subtraction	Multiplication	Division
+ added to all together how many how much increased to combined sum total perimeter	- decreased by difference how many more how many less less than reduced by	X * multiplied by product times total integers positioned next to each other: 5y 6(7)	/ ÷ divided by how many equal parts out of per percent (divide by 100) ratio of quotient fraction  2/3 = 2 ÷ 3
Problem Solving Strategies
draw a picture work backwards make a table look for a pattern guess and check write a number sentence multiple steps use logical reasoning

Choose a strategy. Pick one you think will work. Even if the one you try to use doesn't work, there is a good chance it will lead you to one that will!

Solve the problem.

7. Use the strategy you selected and work the problem. Be sure to show your work – don’t leave out any steps, even on your scratch paper. Organized problem-solving increases your accuracy, and makes it easy for you to go back and check your work! Double-check that your computations are correct.

Look back at the question and check your answer(s).

8. Now that you have answered the question, go back and re-read the question.

•   Did I use the right numbers and information to solve the problem? (CHECK!)

•   Did I do my computations correctly? (CHECK!)

•   Does my answer respond to the actual question being asked? (CHECK!)

•   Is my answer complete? Did I answer all parts of the question being asked?(CHECK!)

•   Is my answer in the correct units? (CHECK!)

•   Does my answer seem reasonable? Does it make sense? (CHECK!)

When you are finished with the test, make sure you have answered everything!

9. When you are finished with the test, check it over very carefully to make sure that you answered every question! If there is a question you can’t figure out, give it your very best and write something down. Don’t leave anything blank!

Good Luck!

Mrs. Nettling