One of the best elements in the Barron's Painless math texts is the frequent use of box insets to warn students of common mistakes made when trying to solve certain types of problems. Painless Math Word Problems utilizes these to excellent effect, as well as forcing kids to adhere to George Polya's famous 4-step process for solving problems:understand the problem, plan a strategy, do the plan, check your work.
This emphasis on careful, logical thought is the greatest strength of Painless Math Word Problems. Author Marcie Abramson works to demystify math, demonstrating that careful attention to and understanding of the rules will lead to proficiency. She covers both the different forms word problems assume, and the various mathematical concepts and functions used to solve them.
Abramson has a sense of humor, and while it doesn't overwhelm the book's actual content it does sweeten the sometimes difficult material. Brain Ticklers offer exercises for students to complete (answers are included) after they've worked through a number of examples step-by-step. Designed for middle and high school students, this can be an introductory or remedial text, or a brush-up for rusty adults.
Review by C. Hollis Crossman
C. Hollis Crossman used to be a child. Now he's a husband and father who loves church, good food, and weird stuff. He might be a mythical creature, but he's definitely not a centaur. Read more of his reviews
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