Math & Number Problems for the Sixth Grade
Sixth grade math problems are dictated by state standards, which are typically based on the standards developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). Sixth grade number sense problems include concepts such as representations of numbers, arithmetic, and the properties of numbers. In order for sixth grade students to be well-versed in mathematics and number sense, they should master the ability to perform math with the use of the process standards.
Other People Are Reading
-
6th Grade Number Problems: Representations of Numbers and Their Various Forms
-
Sixth grade problems involve representing fractions, decimals, and percents in various manners. Students should be able to compare these quantities using a number line and proportions. Students use percents in previous grade levels, but now they develop an understanding of percentages greater than 100. Sixth grade problems use integers to describe mathematical situations such as temperature.
6th Grade Number Problems: Arithmetic
-
Sixth grade math problems entail adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions, decimals and integers. When given a quantity, students should be able to find its factors and multiples. Sixth graders also determine if numbers are prime or composite and use this information to find prime factorization. For example, twelve is a composite number because it has more than two factors. Its prime factorization is 2*2*3 or two squared times three.
-
6th Grade Number Problems: Properties and Divisibility Rules
-
Sixth grade problems require the identification and utilization of the properties to solve problems. Sixth grade learning objectives include using the associative, commutative, and distributive properties. At this point, students begin to use the operations to undo another. For example, in the problem 1/4 + 1/8 = 3/8, one can use the sum to get the addend by using the inverse arithmetic operation -- subtraction 3/8 - 1/8 = 1/4.
6th Grade Math Using Process Standards
-
NCTM's process standards for all grade levels are problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections, and representations. Thus, sixth graders are expected to solve more than rote mathematical problems. They should be able to solve word problems that involve more than one step in the solution process. As students explain in verbal and written form, they are providing the reason for the chosen strategies and solutions. By connecting current objectives to mathematical situations previously experienced, a rich problem solving environment is fostered. Lastly, students should be able to represent mathematical situations in various forms. For examples, students may use black chips to represent positive integers and red chips to represent negative integers.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
