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Using 4 Block (4 Corners) Template in Math

Print the 4 Block Math Template in PDF

In this article I explain how to use this graphic organizer in math which is sometimes referred to as: 4 corners, 4 block or 4 square.

This template works well for solving problems in math that require more than one step or with problems that could be solved by using different strategies. For younger learners, it would work well as a visual which provides a framework for thinking through the problem and showing the steps. We often hear "use pictures, numbers and words to solve problems". This graphic organizer lends itself to support problem solving in math.

Using 4 Block for a Math Term or Concept

 Here is an example of using 4 block to help with the understanding of a term or concept in math. For this template, the term Prime Numbers is used.

A blank template is provided next.

Blank 4 Block Template

 Print this blank 4 block template in PDF.

This type of template can be used with terms in math. (Definition, Characteristics, Examples and non Examples.)  Use terms like Prime Numbers, Rectangles, Right Triangle, Polygons, Odd Numbers, Even Numbers, Perpendicular Lines, Quadratic Equations, Hexagon, Coefficient to name a few. 

However, it can also be used to solve problems like a typical 4 block problem. See the Handshake Problem example next.

4 Block using Handshake Problem

 Here is an example of the handshake problem being solve by a 10 year old. The problem was: If 25 people shake hands, how many handshakes will there be?

Without a framework to solve the problem, students often miss steps or don't answer the problem correctly. When the 4 block template is used regularly, learners improve in their ability to solve problems as it forces a way of thinking that works for solving problems.

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Theses and Dissertations

Using the four square strategy to enhance math problem-solving.

Andrea Gerrard

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M.A. Learning Disabilities

Language, Literacy, and Special Education

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Kuder, S Jay

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Elementary Education and Teaching

This study examined whether the use of the Four Square problem-solving strategy would improve the math problem-solving performance of students who receive supplemental services for language arts literacy and mathematics from a basic skills teacher or a special education teacher. The Four Square strategy was used in conjunction with the enVision math series. It was also used during all problem-solving lessons. Students' growth in math problem-solving was measured using the enVision problem-solving pre- and post-test and the Measure of Academic Progress Test (MAP). Students showed growth on the enVision test. The students showed work when solving problems instead of just selecting one of the available answer choices and were able to increase the number of questions correct on the assessment. Students did show growth on the MAP test. They were able to close the gap between other students in the sixth grade who receive supplemental services for language arts literacy and mathematics from a basic skills teacher. The results indicate that the Four Square strategy can be a useful way to enhance students' problem-solving skills. The Four Square strategy allowed students to take ownership of their problem-solving skills and to improve these skills throughout the study.

Recommended Citation

Gerrard, Andrea, "Using the Four Square strategy to enhance math problem-solving" (2013). Theses and Dissertations . 157. https://rdw.rowan.edu/etd/157

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Four Square

4 square math problem solving

4 Square Problem Solving Template

4 square math problem solving

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  • complete\:the\:square\:x^{2}+3x
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    4 Block Math Problem Solving. D. Russell. Print the 4 Block Math Template in PDF. In this article I explain how to use this graphic organizer in math which is sometimes referred to as: 4 corners, 4 block or 4 square.. This template works well for solving problems in math that require more than one step or with problems that could be solved by using different strategies.

  4. Using the Four Square strategy to enhance math problem-solving

    The Four Square strategy was used in conjunction. with the enVision math series. It was also used during all problem-solving lessons. Students' growth in math problem-solving was measured using the enVision problem-. solving pre- and post-test and the Measure of Academic Progress Test (MAP). Students.

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    Report this resource to TPT. Reported resources will be reviewed by our team. Report this resource to let us know if this resource violates TPT's content guidelines. 106 Followers. Use this organizer to help your students tackle word problems. It will help them break down what the problem is asking and come up with a plan. ...

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    This study examined whether the use of the Four Square problem-solving strategy would improve the math problem-solving performance of students who receive supplemental services for language arts literacy and mathematics from a basic skills teacher or a special education teacher. The Four Square strategy was used in conjunction with the enVision math series. It was also used during all problem ...

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    Math Word Problem 4 - Square Template. Created by. Peace Love Leilani. Using the 4 -squares to solve math word problems will help students deconstruct story problems to better their understanding. Students identify the sentence to solve, draw a model, write an equation, explain their answer, and show another way to solve!

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    A four part problem solving template that can be used with popular problem solving series such as "The Problem Solver". It has room for students to record the problem, choose a strategy from a list, show their work and finally state and explain their answer. Reported resources will be reviewed by our team. Report this resource to let us know if ...

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