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Structures in Use

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best way to teach word problems

What is the best way to teach word problems?

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 […]

Word Problem Instruction Reinvented

Bar models are the foundation for SoE. Learn how they’re enhanced through the structures.

A class-by-class data comparison

Take a peek at the data from 3 classrooms. They range from little/no use to consistent use of SoE>

reading comprehension tool

A Reading Comprehension Tool to Solve Math Word Problems 

(updated July 2024) There are 3 Structures of Equality (SoE). They each have 3 critical elements to help students comprehend number stories.

Bar Models and CGI

If bar models and CGI had a baby, it would be Structures of Equality

(updated July 2024) SoE are based on what works with bar models and CGI. With a few upgrades, you have a reading comprehension tool for math.