Math Sticking Point: Word Problems
Reading comprehension impacts a student’s ability to solve word problems. This is because contextual math tasks combine literacy skills and numerical reasoning. Researchers at St. Mary’s College reported: “…that reading comprehension was a strong predictor of success in mathematical problem solving, particularly among elementary school pupils.” While math teachers focus on numeracy skills, it is also vital that they focus on reading comprehension.
In this workshop, teachers will dive deeper into recent research linking strong literacy skills with increased mathematical understanding. Teachers will explore strategies to scaffold learning for MLLs and students with learning differences. By the end of the workshop, you will be able to implement instructional moves that build both literacy and numeracy immediately.
Audience: Math teachers, instructional coaches, multiple-subject teachers, special education teachers, administrators, support staff.
Length: 1 hour
Presenter/s: Jesse Vickers
Dates: September 15th 2026
Time: 4 pm
Cost: Free
Outcomes
- Recall the process of solving a word problem from the point of view of the student.
- Identify the varying parts of language that construct a math word problem (lexical, polysemous, academic).
- Implement a scaffold or strategy to support students for each part of language (lexical, polysemous, academic) that make up math word problems.
Teacher Bio
Jesse Vickers is a math teacher at Chartwell High School. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and a Master’s in Instructional Science and Technology, both from CSU Monterey Bay. When he’s not teaching, you can find him spending time with his family, either at the beach or a nearby bookstore.
