Final answer:
A number sentence in problem solving represents a situation or problem using numerical values and operations. An example is 3 × 14 = 42 for calculating wallpaper needed. Methods like covering up numbers to solve for them enhance problem-solving skills and estimation.
Step-by-step explanation:
A number sentence in problem solving is a mathematical statement using numbers and operations to represent a problem or situation. For example, if Erin is redecorating her living room and she has measured the walls to be 14 feet long and needs to purchase 3 lengths of wallpaper to cover one wall, we might write the number sentence as: 3 × 14 = 42, where 42 represents the total length of wallpaper needed in feet.
Another way to practice solving these problems is to cover up one of the numbers and solve for it using the remaining information. This strategy helps build problem-solving skills and encourages estimation and reasoning, which are advantageous in personalized situations.
Solving a math problem like this requires identifying knowns and unknowns, and applying specific problem-solving strategies to find a solution. An example of a complex multiplication that requires some thought could be: 24 × 14 = 336, which students could calculate in their heads or using paper and pencil.