Developing Mathematical Aptitude: Three Reads Routine
by Maria Kathleen Villanueva
Solving mathematical problems requires comprehension and critical thinking to ground students in concept-oriented processes. With these skills, students can feel more confident in working with story problems and avoid falling to common keyword errors by perceiving the word “less” in a one-dimensional manner. Generally, less can either mean subtract or add depending on the context used.
In that context, how do educators support students in solving word problems smarter? How do they ensure that students are equipped with the right tools for both reading comprehension and problem-solving skills?
Ask Emily presents Three Reads mathematical routine, a three-step problem-solving strategy for word problems to hone students’ understanding of the context, terminologies, and procedures.
To apply this math routine, take note of these reading steps:
First Read: What is the problem about?
To start the process, students will describe the contexts and identify what is being asked in the word problem using mathematical or non-mathematical languages.
Second Read: What can we count or measure?
Students will take note of what quantities or points of measurement are present in the given problem.
Third Read: What are different representations or strategies we can use to solve this problem?
This final step allows students to discuss their observations and make connections based on the relationships of the quantities measured in the second read.
Why should I use Three Reads in my classroom?
As evident in these steps, repetition and strategic problem-solving are the core principles of this mathematical routine. This ensures that students solidify their mathematical skills without relying on tricks or even misleading keywords such as less.
Having a strong conceptual understanding and critical thinking on word problems is an indicator of a replicable skill, which will serve as the foundation for stronger mathematical aptitude.
Three Reads math routine is a powerful tool to set your students up for mathematical success by equipping them with strategic problem-solving.
Apply impactful mathematical routines in your classroom now by using free resources from our Ask Emily video series:
Maria Kathleen Villanueva (she/her/siya) is a first-generation Filipina immigrant who is passionate about promoting educational equity and amplifying Asian-American voices in socio-political spaces.
As a Digital Marketing intern at Teaching Lab, she develops and executes social media campaigns to optimize content for educators and school leaders. She is pursuing Foreign Affairs at the University of Virginia and serving as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion secretary of the 2024 Trustees.
