Solving Word Problems Using Divisibility Rules

Sheena Doria

This instructional video guides students through the process of solving word problems using divisibility rules and Polya's Four-Step Problem Solving Method (Understand, Plan, Solve, Check). It presents two distinct scenarios: a routine problem about arranging seats for an event based on common factors, and a non-routine logic puzzle about determining a person's age based on numerical clues. The narrator systematically applies divisibility tests for numbers like 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 12 to arrive at the correct solutions. The video covers key mathematical themes including finding common factors, understanding multiples, and applying specific divisibility rules to larger numbers. It emphasizes the importance of a structured approach to problem-solving, explicitly breaking down each problem into four manageable stages. The content demonstrates how to check divisibility for various integers, providing a practical review of arithmetic rules while teaching logical deduction. For educators, this resource is an excellent tool for demonstrating how abstract math rules apply to real-world scenarios. It models critical thinking by showing not just the answer, but the step-by-step reasoning required to get there. Teachers can use this video to introduce problem-solving strategies, review divisibility concepts, or model how to check work for accuracy. The clear visual aids and text-heavy presentation make it accessible for students who benefit from seeing calculations written out.