Terminology you need to
know!
Math Operations
Sum:

The result of an adding question
Difference:

The result of a subtraction question
Product:

The result of a multiplication question
Quotient:

The result of a division question
Expression:

Any mathematical calculation or formula
Exponent:

The superscripted number in a power, for example 3 is the
exponent in 23
Base:

The bottom number in a power
Ordered Pair:

Two numbers given to indicate a position on a graph written in
the form (x,y).
Common Factor:


A whole number that divides evenly into two different numbers.
Example: A common factor of 12 and 18 is 3, as 3 divides into
both 12 and 18 evenly
Key Words in Questions
These will be important when
completing questions, doing tests, and
ESPECIALLY during the EQAO
examination in June!
Compare:

Tell what is the same and what is different
Describe:

Use words to create a mental picture for the reader
Determine:

Use math to find a solution to the problem
List:

Use point form
Explain:

Use words and symbols to make your solution clear
Simplify:

Put the current question into it’s most simplest form
Justify:

Give reasons and evidence to show that your answer is correct
Show your work:


Record all calculations and all the steps you went through to get
your answer.
You may use words, number, graphs, diagrams, symbols and/or
charts
**NOT FOLLOWING THESE DIRECTIONS MAY CAUSE YOU TO
ANSWER A QUESTION INCORRECTLY OR MAY CAUSE YOU
TO LOSE SIGNIFICANT “COMMUNICATION” MARKS. **
GRASS Method of Solving
Math Questions
G.R.A.S.S.

Given: What do you already know?

Required: What do you need to find out?

Analysis: How are you going to solve it?

What formula? What operation (+,-, x, ÷)?

Solve: Use chosen method to solve question

Statement: A sentence that states your solution
Example:

At the market there are 600 oranges, 500
apples, 74 carrots, and 300 bananas.
How many pieces of fruit are there?

Given:
 Oranges
= 600
 Apples = 500
 Carrots = 74
 Bananas = 300

Required:
 Fruit

=?
Analysis:
 Oranges

Solve:


+ Apples + Bananas = Fruit
600
+
500 + 300
= 1400
Statement:
 There
are 1400 pieces of fruit at the market