Holy Crap! Third Grade Math

[OhMari]

Some teachers get quite upset when the parents figure out the math problems, they want the kids too, and then in the next breath, they wonder why mom or dad never make sure the homework gets done.

I always helped my kids with homework-

 

[Barb D]

Ben has 20 coins. They are all quarters, dimes, or nickels. What is the greatest amount of money Ben could have if seven are nickels? What is the smallest amount if three are quarters?

Answering without reading the rest of the responses:

OK 20 coins - 7 nickles = 13 coins, which should be quarters to make it the largest amount. (7*.05) + (13*.25) = .35 + 3.25 = $3.60.

20 coins - 3 quarters = 17 coins, which should be nickles to make it the smallest dollar amount. (3*.25) + (17*.05) = .75 + .85 = $1.60

 

[Beth76]

Some teachers get quite upset when the parents figure out the math problems, they want the kids too, and then in the next breath, they wonder why mom or dad never make sure the homework gets done.

I can understand that, but I also think at this age it's a good idea for parents to help steer the kids in the right direction. Especially with word problems. Helping (or even showing outright) with a problem like this, can help the child understand the wording. Then on the next problem, they're more likely to be able to recognize the important words and analyze it better.

OP, any news on the answer yet?