🧠 Math Vocabulary Problem Solving Key Words Anchor Chart

Perfect for Grades 2–5 & ESL Students

Help your students confidently navigate math word problems with this Math Vocabulary Problem Solving Key Words Anchor Chart!

Designed to support 2nd–5th grade and ESL learners, this resource helps students identify which mathematical operation a problem is asking them to use by recognizing important key words.

Students can either:

✔ Fill out their own chart

✔ Use the ready-made version for reference

Perfect for classroom or at-home support!

📘 What’s Included

This notebook chart features a 4-Square Organizer with key vocabulary for:

➕ Addition

➖ Subtraction

✖ Multiplication

➗ Division

Each section contains essential words students commonly encounter in word problems.

🏫 Ways to Use This Resource

✔ Teach Operation Identification

Train students to box key math words (along with important numbers) in every word problem to determine the correct operation.

✔ Math Center Poster

Display as a reference tool alongside task cards or problem-solving activities.

✔ Math Journals

Glue into notebooks for ongoing support during independent practice.

✔ Homework Support

Send home as a parent-friendly guide to assist with word problems.

✔ Beginning-of-Year Activity

Use the blank version to generate a key word list together as a class.

🌟 Why Teachers Love It

✔ Supports struggling readers and ESL learners

✔ Encourages independence in problem solving

✔ Reinforces academic vocabulary

✔ Simple, clear, and easy to implement

✔ Promotes consistent problem-solving strategies

Build strong math vocabulary foundations and give your students the tools they need to approach word problems with confidence.

Happy Problem Solving!

Jessica ✏️