Structures in Use
The Compare structure helps students visualize the comparison relationship that occurs in some number stories. Find out how to use it.
Parts Equal Total helps us model math stories that describe composing 2 or more parts to form a total. Learn how to introduce and use them.
Meet Jasmin Nabors, a 4th grade teacher in Durham, NC. She’ll share her struggles and successes with SoE, along with a few tips.
We know that mathematically proficient students engage in the practice standards consistently. Learn how all 8 are embedded into SoE.
All Structures of Equality have 3 components: values, labels, and equality. Learn about the line of equality and why it’s important.
Simple but not easy You’ve likely heard the saying nothing good comes without hard work. Last week, you were privy to a conversation with a 4th grade teacher who recently started implementing Structures of Equality (SoE) in her classroom. There was a point where she wanted to give up. Her students couldn’t figure out what word […]
Structures of Equality takes the best of bar models and CGI and adds in a few key elements to help students visualize what is happening in story problems.
Last week, you saw an example of how keywords can cause confusion when students are given a problem with a comparison situation. Today, you’ll see two word problem strategies side by side: CUBES and Structures of Equality (SoE). Look for 3 key things while you work your way through the strategies: First, let’s take a […]
Using keywords is a common strategy. While they seem like a helpful tip, they often add to the confusion.
Updated July 30, 2025 Comprehension of word problems is also one of the most baffling tasks for teachers and students. While we know the importance of helping students become proficient mathematicians who can “make sense of problems and persevere in solving them”, this is no easy feat. A Quick Refresher WIn the last couple weeks, […]
Updated July 30, 2025 I once heard a math teacher describe word problems as “the bane of her existence”. I completely “Word problems are the bane of my existence.” I once heard a math teacher describe math stories this way, and I completely get it. There are common challenges across many classrooms: students don’t know […]
Updated July 16, 2025 There are so many word problem strategies to choose from. It can be confusing to figure out which ones to use or not use, and how to teach so students understand them. When I was in the classroom, I came across tons of tips and tricks, but they seemed to confuse […]
