Use the gradient background: top #A8E6CF, middle #85D6A8, bottom #62C688. Welcome students to our Problem Sleuths session. Introduce yourself and explain that today they’ll learn a four-step strategy to crack word problems.

Keep the gradient background. Activate prior knowledge: ask volunteers to share a story problem they’ve solved. Note challenges on whiteboard.

Refer to the [Problem Sleuths Strategy Poster](#problem-sleuths-strategy-poster) hung in the room. Point to each step as you introduce it.

Explain that “Understand” means finding key info and restating the question. Model circling numbers and underlining the question.

Demonstrate deciding on operations (e.g., addition, subtraction). Show how to draw a quick picture or write a number sentence.

Emphasize neat, clear calculations. Show how to work step by step on a dry erase board.

Highlight that checking means rereading and confirming. Show checking with inverse operations or estimation.

Display a sample card from the [Word Problem Card Set](#word-problem-card-set). Read aloud and guide the group through each step, thinking aloud.

Explain partner practice: each pair picks a new card, uses the [Problem Solving Recording Sheet](#problem-solving-recording-sheet), and follows the checklist.

Invite pairs to share one strategy they used and one thing they checked. Praise clear use of steps and encourage reflection.