Solving by Answering a Hidden Question
Solving by Answering a Hidden Question is a Grade 4 math skill in enVision Mathematics, Chapter 6: Use Operations with Whole Numbers to Solve Problems. Students learn to identify and solve the unstated intermediate question within a multi-step word problem before finding the final answer.
Key Concepts
To solve a two step problem, first answer the hidden question to find an intermediate value. Then, use that value to perform the second step and solve the main problem.
Common Questions
What is a hidden question in a word problem?
A hidden question is an intermediate question that is not directly asked in the problem but must be answered before you can solve for the final answer.
How do you find and solve a hidden question?
Read the problem carefully and ask what information you need that is not given. Solve that intermediate question first, then use that result to answer the main question.
What is an example of a hidden question?
If a problem asks how much change you get back after buying 3 items at different prices, the hidden question is: what is the total cost of all 3 items?
Why is identifying hidden questions important?
Many multi-step problems require intermediate calculations that are not explicitly requested. Missing the hidden question leads to incorrect or incomplete answers.
What chapter covers hidden questions in enVision Mathematics Grade 4?
Solving by answering a hidden question is covered in Chapter 6: Use Operations with Whole Numbers to Solve Problems in enVision Mathematics Grade 4.