Exploring the Power of the CUBES Math Strategy for Word Problems

Math problem-solving is one of the most challenging things we teach. The CUBES strategy gives students a clear way to approach tricky word problems. Whether they’re solving for volume, area, or figuring out how many more apples Sally has than Timmy, CUBES helps struggling learners break problems into manageable steps. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, students have a systematic plan to follow.

So if you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head in frustration over your struggling learners’ battle with story problems, fear not! The CUBES math strategy is here to make your life a whole lot easier. Stick around to learn more about how this awesome strategy can help you help your struggling students become math problem-solving pros!

What is the CUBES Math Strategy?

The CUBES math strategy is a tool designed to help give students a systematic approach to breaking down and solving math word problems. The acronym C.U.B.E.S stands for:

• Circle key numbers & units
• Underline the question
• Box math action words
• Evaluate the problem
• Solve the problem & check your work

By breaking down the problem into these steps, students can better understand the context of the problem and effectively solve it.

Benefits of using the CUBES strategy in math word problems

CUBES isn’t the perfect strategy for every problem, especially as questions become more complex. But it’s a strong starting point for helping struggling students approach word problems more systematically.

Many struggling learners struggle with executive functioning. They need a clear, repeatable plan. A strategy like CUBES gives them defined steps instead of leaving them overwhelmed. That structure builds confidence and prepares them for multi-step problem solving.

It’s also worth noting that word problem struggles are often tied to reading demands. Vocabulary, multi-step directions, and language complexity all matter. If you’re thinking about math support within a broader system, you may also find this guide to supporting struggling readers in grades 3–8 helpful. Strong reading systems often strengthen math performance, too.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the CUBES Strategy

Teaching CUBES means modeling the steps and gradually releasing responsibility until students can use the strategy independently. The goal is simple: give students a clear process so they can approach word problems with confidence.

Here’s what each step looks like:

C- Circle the numbers & units

Students circle the key information in the problem. This includes numbers, units, and words that represent quantities such as half, dozen, or several. If no numbers are given, they circle relevant details like none.

They should also pay attention to units and decimals.

While we do not want students relying only on keywords, it is helpful for them to recognize words that signal mathematical operations.

U- Underline the question

After identifying key information, students underline what the problem is actually asking.

This keeps them focused. If they do not clearly identify the question, they are likely to solve the wrong thing.

B- Box math action words

This is not about memorizing keywords. It is about reading carefully.

Students box words and phrases that help them determine what operation or strategy is needed. For example:

• Addition: add, added, both, sum, total
• Subtraction: difference between, less than
• Multiplication: times twice as many/much as of every
• Division: split equally among/between each share out of

These clues help students think like critical readers instead of guessers.

E- Evaluate or Equation

At this stage, students decide how to solve. Some may write an equation. Others may draw a model or use manipulatives.

The key is that by now, the problem has been broken down into manageable parts.

S- Solve & Check

Students solve the problem and check their work.

Encourage them to show their thinking and explain their reasoning. Checking may include plugging the answer back into the problem or reviewing calculations for errors.

Reflection matters here. Ask what worked, what was challenging, and how they might approach a similar problem next time.

Tips for Implementing the CUBES Math Word Problem Strategy

When introducing a new strategy, it helps to learn from teachers who’ve tried it. Here are a few practical tips:

To teach the cubes strategy, you should:

• Teach it as a complete process.
  CUBES works best when students see the full flow. Model several examples and create a visual anchor chart that stays posted for reference.
• Model before releasing.
  Start with a familiar problem and think aloud as you apply each step. A daily routine like a Problem of the Day works well for this because students can focus on the strategy without being overwhelmed by new content.
• Build visuals together.
  Create anchor charts as a class and practice with hands-on examples. Construction paper cubes or simple manipulatives can help make the steps concrete.
• Avoid over-relying on algorithms.
  CUBES helps students organize the problem. It does not dictate how they calculate. Encourage drawings, number lines, or other strategies you’ve already taught.

Ultimately, CUBES helps students filter out distractions and focus on what matters. For learners who tend to get overwhelmed by details, that structure can make a real difference.