Are you preparing for percent word problems? Wondering what to do? Keep reading to discover important math concepts to review.
#1 – Fractions and Ratios
Students need to understand that fractions relate to percent word problems. 60/100 is represented in ratio form as 60 to 100 or 60:100. The same ratio may be read as 60 per 100, representing 60 percent, 60%.
Once students understand this relationship, they will see relationships between 10 x 10 grids and percent. Each 10 x 10 grid represents a whole of one hundred parts: 10 x 10 = 100. Percent means per one hundred.
A 10 x 10 grid with 60 squares filled represents the fraction 60/100.
Below is an example of a 10×10 grid representing three hundred percent: 100 + 100 + 100 = 300%.
Two of three grids filled. The third grid has twenty-five out of the one hundred squares filled. Percent for this picture would be represented as: 100 + 100 + 25 = 125 %
#2 – Conversions Between Fractions, Decimals, and Percent
Next, the ability to convert between fractions, decimals, and percents enables the student to solve percent word problems. Students will need this skill to solve equations that require conversions.
Below are examples of percent in decimal and fraction form.
Observe the values for percent, decimals, and fractions.
Need help teaching conversions between fractions, decimals, and percents? Click on the links below each image.
#3 – Percent in a Simple Story
#4 – Examples of Percent Word Problems
Introduce students to the sound of percent word problems. Explain that such a problem will ask for the percent, whole, or part. Add that the word “is” may be associated with the part. The word “of” is often associated with the whole.
- 1. Find the percent
2. Find the whole
3. Find the part
Examples:
1. What is 80 percent of 64? Given: Percent = 80, Whole = 64. Find the part.
2. Four is what percent of 16? Given: Part = 4, Whole = 16. Find the percent.
3. 4 is 60 percent of what number? Given: Part = 4, Percent = 60. Find the Whole.
Provide practice opportunities for students to read similar word problems for practice identifying keywords and what each word represents. This will increase student confidence in solving these types of problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fractions and the ability to convert between fractions, decimals, and percents play a role in percent word problems. When students understand what percent looks like and sounds like, they will demonstrate confidence in solving these problems.
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