Quick answer: Math problem solving IEP goals focus on applying math to word problems and real life: understanding what a problem asks, choosing an operation, using a strategy like drawing a model, solving multi-step problems, and checking if the answer makes sense. They also include functional math such as money, time and measurement. Strong goals name the problem type, the supports allowed, and a clear criterion. This bank gives you 41 SMART math problem solving IEP goals.
In this goal bank
Many students can compute when the numbers are lined up for them, then freeze at a word problem. Others understand the situation but get lost in the steps. Math problem solving IEP goals target the thinking that turns calculation into useful math. This bank is part of our IEP Goal Bank series and pairs with our math calculation IEP goals.
How to Write Math Problem Solving IEP Goals
Problem solving mixes reading, language, working memory and math. Before writing goals, find the barrier: Is it reading the problem, understanding the situation, choosing the operation, or keeping track of steps? If reading is the barrier, read the problem aloud. See reading comprehension IEP goals.
Formula: By [date], given [problem type] read aloud or in print and [strategy or tool], [Student] will [solve or explain] with [criterion] across [number] probes.
Present level example: “Given 1-step addition and subtraction word problems read aloud, Jordan selects the correct operation in 2 of 5 problems. He solves the computation correctly once the equation is written for him.”
Key point: Teaching students to recognize problem types (combine, change, compare, equal groups) is more effective than teaching keywords like “altogether,” which often mislead.
Word Problem Goals
Elementary
- Given a 1-step addition or subtraction word problem read aloud, [Student] will identify the question being asked in 4 of 5 trials.
- Given a 1-step word problem, [Student] will select the correct operation with 80% accuracy.
- Given a 1-step word problem within 20, [Student] will solve it using objects or drawings with 80% accuracy.
- Given a word problem, [Student] will write an equation that matches the situation in 4 of 5 trials.
- Given equal groups problems, [Student] will solve them using multiplication or division with 80% accuracy.
- Given a word problem with extra information, [Student] will cross out unneeded information and solve with 75% accuracy.
Middle and High School
- Given a 2-step word problem, [Student] will identify both steps and solve with 75% accuracy.
- Given a multi-step word problem, [Student] will use a problem solving checklist to solve with 75% accuracy.
- Given a ratio or rate problem, [Student] will set up and solve a proportion with 75% accuracy.
- Given a percent problem in context (sales, tips, discounts), [Student] will solve with 75% accuracy.
- Given a real-world problem, [Student] will write and solve a one-variable equation with 70% accuracy.
- Given a problem involving fractions in context, [Student] will solve using a visual model with 75% accuracy.
Free resource
Executive Functioning Skills Toolkit
10 printable tools to help students plan, focus, start tasks and stay organized.
Strategy and Reasoning Goals
- Given a word problem, [Student] will use a 4-step strategy (understand, plan, solve, check) in 4 of 5 problems.
- Given a word problem, [Student] will draw a picture, bar model or diagram to represent it in 4 of 5 trials.
- Given a word problem, [Student] will identify the problem type (combine, change, compare, equal groups) with 80% accuracy.
- After solving, [Student] will check if the answer is reasonable using estimation in 4 of 5 problems.
- Given a solved problem, [Student] will explain their thinking orally, in writing or with AAC in 4 of 5 trials.
- Given a problem with an error, [Student] will find and correct the mistake in 4 of 5 examples.
- [Student] will choose a tool (manipulatives, number line, calculator) that helps solve the problem in 4 of 5 tasks.
Money Goals
- Given coins, [Student] will identify each coin and its value with 100% accuracy.
- Given a set of mixed coins, [Student] will count the total value up to $1.00 with 90% accuracy.
- Given a price under $10, [Student] will select the correct bills using the next-dollar strategy in 4 of 5 trials.
- Given a purchase and an amount paid, [Student] will calculate the change with 80% accuracy using a calculator.
- Given a budget and a simple shopping list, [Student] will determine if they have enough money in 4 of 5 trials.
- In a community or simulated store setting, [Student] will complete a purchase independently in 4 of 5 opportunities.
Time Goals
- Given an analog clock, [Student] will tell time to the hour and half hour with 90% accuracy.
- Given an analog or digital clock, [Student] will tell time to 5-minute intervals with 85% accuracy.
- Given a start and end time, [Student] will calculate elapsed time with 75% accuracy using a number line.
- Given a daily schedule, [Student] will identify what activity happens at a given time in 4 of 5 trials.
- Given a calendar, [Student] will find dates and count days until an event with 85% accuracy.
Measurement and Data Goals
- Given a ruler, [Student] will measure objects to the nearest inch or centimeter with 85% accuracy.
- Given a recipe, [Student] will select the correct measuring cups and spoons in 4 of 5 trials.
- Given a simple bar graph or table, [Student] will answer 3 questions about the data with 80% accuracy.
- Given data, [Student] will create a bar graph or line plot with correct labels in 4 of 5 trials.
- Given a measurement problem in context, [Student] will convert between units using a reference chart with 75% accuracy.
The BERMED Goal-Writing Check
- B: Baseline. Where does problem solving break down?
- E: Exact skill. Understanding, operation choice, steps or checking?
- R: Realistic. One-step before two-step, concrete before abstract.
- M: Measurable. Accuracy across a set number of problems.
- E: Equitable access. Read aloud, calculators and visuals where appropriate.
- D: Data plan. Weekly problem sets scored the same way.
Data Collection and Accommodations
| Skill | How to measure | Accommodations to pair |
|---|---|---|
| Word problems | Accuracy on 5-problem probes | Read aloud, highlighted questions |
| Strategy use | Checklist of steps used | Problem solving cue card |
| Money and time | Performance tasks | Calculator, visual clocks |
| Measurement | Task accuracy | Reference charts, adapted tools |
Problem solving depends on planning and memory, see working memory strategies and executive functioning IEP goals. For students working on daily living math, our functional life skills curriculum offers more ideas. Math learning differences are explained in dyscalculia in the classroom.
Neuroaffirming tip: Use real interests in word problems, like trains, games or animals. Meaningful contexts make problem solving more engaging and easier to understand.
What are math problem solving IEP goals?
They are measurable goals for applying math to word problems and real life, such as choosing the operation, using a strategy, solving multi-step problems and checking answers.
Should students use keywords to solve word problems?
Keywords often mislead. Teaching problem types, such as combine, change and compare, with visual models works better.
How do you measure problem solving goals?
Use short sets of word problems at the target level and score accuracy, plus a checklist of strategy steps used.
Can functional math be part of IEP goals?
Yes. Money, time, measurement and budgeting goals help students use math in daily life.
Should word problems be read aloud?
If reading is a barrier, reading problems aloud lets you measure math thinking rather than decoding.
5 Actions to Take This Week
- Give 5 word problems read aloud and note where the student gets stuck.
- Teach one problem type with a visual model.
- Introduce a 4-step problem solving cue card.
- Add one real-life money or time task.
- Pick 2 goals from this bank and set a weekly probe.
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