Math - It adds up to your future.
"How am I ever going to use this stuff?"
In response to this nagging question, these real-world math problems were contributed by a variety of area businesses and demonstrate the relevance of math in today's world.
The intent of these lessons is to excite students about mathematics, to expose students to professions that employ mathematics, and to demonstrate the relevance of mathematics in solving real-world challenges. Clearly, students who do not see a reason for studying a subject, apply little effort to that endeavor. Connecting learning to the world of work helps students see how knowledge is applied and acts to motivate them. It helps students see how what they learn relates to life beyond school so that young people can be better prepared for the rapidly changing world.
Math in the Workplace problems are aligned with both the National
Standards for School Mathematics and the Idaho State
Mathematics Achievement Standards. Learn more about the alignment
and find links to these organizations here
These lessons were contributed by parents of students involved in the project. They have been field tested by 10 teachers involved in a pilot of the project.
Feel free to make copies of these materials. If you would like to submit problems for future publication, contact Micron's K-12 Programs, 208-368-4000.
* Businesses and organizations are all located in the communities of Southwest Idaho, including Boise, Nampa, Caldwell, Meridian, and Eagle.
Idaho Mathematics Standards for Numbers & Operations Problems
This index provides a listing of the Numbers and Operations Problems by grade level reference and then alphabetically. Grade four relates to numbers 297 through 303; grade five, numbers 307 through 313; grade six, numbers 317 through 323; grade seven, numbers 327 through 333; grade eight, numbers 337 through 343; grades nine through twelve, numbers 347 through 353. Idaho Math Standards can be found at Idaho Achieves.
Coretronics, Inc. Assembly Operator
Grades 4,5, 6
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
297.02, 307.02, 317.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
298.01, 308.01, 318.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
298.02, 308.02, 318.02
Meridian School District Kindergarten Teacher
Grades 4,5, 6
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
297.02, 307.02, 317.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
298.01, 308.01, 318.01
Micron Technology, Inc. General Manager
Grades 4,5
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
297.02, 307.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
298.01, 308.01
Union Pacific Railroad Conductor
Grades 4, 5
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
297.02, 307.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
298.01, 308.01
Washington Mutual Bank Mortgage Loan Officer
Grades 4, 5, 6
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
297.02, 307.02, 317.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
298.02, 308.02, 318.02
Albertsons Inc. Real Estate VP
Grades 5,6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
307.02, 317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
308.01, 318.01, 328.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
308.02, 318.02, 328.02
• Concepts and Principles of Measurement
Understand and use U.S. customary and metric measurements.
309.01, 319.01, 329.01
• Concepts and Principles of Geometry
Apply concepts of size, shape, and spatial relationships.
311.01, 321.01, 331.01
Elizabeth Crandlemire Homemaker (1)
Grades 5,6, 7
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
308.01, 318.01, 328.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
308.02, 318.02, 328.02
Communicate results using appropriate terminology and methods.
308.04, 318.04, 328.04
Equine Hospital and Lameness Center Veterinarian
Grades 5,6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
307.02, 317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
308.01, 318.01, 328.01
• Concepts and Principles of Measurement
Understand and use U.S. customary and metric measurements.
309.01, 319.01, 329.01
Idaho Physician Associates Family Physician
Grades 5,6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
307.02, 317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
308.01, 318.01, 328.01
• Concepts and Principles of Measurement
Understand and use U.S. customary and metric measurements.
309.01, 319.01, 329.01
Meridian School District Second Grade Teacher
Grades 5,6
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
307.02, 317.02
• Data Analysis, Probability and Statistics
Apply simple statistical measurements.
312.03, 322.03
Micron Technology, Inc. Purchasing Agent
Grades 5,6
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
307.02, 317.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
308.01, 318.01
Mobile Small Animal Clinic Veterinarian
Grades 5,6
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
308.02, 318.02
• Concepts and Principles of Measurement
Understand and use U.S. customary and metric measurements.
309.01, 319.01
Albertsons Inc. Assistant Produce Manager
Grades 6,7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
Albertsons Inc. Food Broker
Grades 6,7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately. 317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
Boise Hardware Inc. Full charge Bookkeeper
Grades 6,7,8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02, 338.02
Communicate results using appropriate terminology and methods.
318.04, 328.04, 338.04
Boise Heart Clinic Registered Dietitian
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
BON-Macy's Shoe Salesperson
Grades 6,7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
Bureau of Land Management Emergency Operations Coordinator
Grades 6,7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
Coretronics, Inc. Machine Operator
Grades 6,7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Concepts and Principles a of Measurement
Understand and use U.S. customary and metric measurements.
319.01, 329.01
Grace Bible Church Pastor
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
Key Bank Vice President
Grades 6,7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
Lamb Weston, Inc. Director International Finance
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
L.B. Industries, Inc. Property Development Manager
Grades 6, 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02, 337.01
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01, 338.01
• Concepts and Principles a of Measurement
Understand and use U.S. customary and metric measurements.
319.01, 329.01, 339.01
MCMS Process Engineer
Grades 6, 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02, 337.01
Micron Technology, Inc. Graphic Designer
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
• Concepts and Principles a of Measurement
Apply the concepts of ratios and proportions.
319.03, 329.03
Micron Technology, Inc. Health-Care Specialist
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Concepts and Principles a of Measurement
Apply the concepts of ratios and proportions.
319.03, 329.03
Micron Technology, Inc. Inventory Control
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
Nagel Beverage Company Area Sales Manager
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
Neighborhood Housing Services Manager
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
Reed K. Jarvis, DDS PA Dental Assistant
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
Sawtooth Lumber Sales Salesman
• Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
• Data Analysis, Probability, and Statistics
Understand data analysis.
322.01, 332.01
St. Alphonsus Hospital Operating Room Nurse
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
Sturner & Klein Team Leader
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
318.02, 328.02
• Data Analysis, Probability, and Statistics
Apply simple statistical measurements.
322.03, 332.03
USDA Forest Service Range Land Management Specialist
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
318.01, 328.01
• Concepts and Principles a of Measurement
Apply concepts of rates and other derived or indirect measurements.
319.02, 329.02
U.S. West Communications Customer Service Technician
Grades 6, 7
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
317.01, 327.01
Perform computations accurately.
317.02, 327.02
Computer Arts, Inc. Office Manager
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
328.01, 338.01
Communicate results using appropriate terminology and methods.
328.04, 338.04
Container & Packaging Supply Inc. Business Owner
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
328.02, 338.02
Fred Meyer Store Level Management
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
328.01, 338.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
328.02, 338.02
Hewlett-Packard Business Manager
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately. 327.02, 337.02
• Concepts and Principles of Measurement
Apply the concepts of ratios and proportions.
329.03, 339.03
Hewlett-Packard IT Software Specialist
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
328.01, 338.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
328.02, 338.02
Micron Technology, Inc. Benefits Administrator
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
328.01, 338.01
Micron Technology, Inc. Engineer - Yield (1)
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
328.01, 338.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
328.02, 338.02
• Data Analysis, Probability, and Statistics
Understand data analysis.
332.01, 342.01
Apply simple statistical measurements.
332.03, 342.03
Micron Technology, Inc. Payroll Clerk
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately. 327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
328.01, 338.01
NCS Health Care Licensed Practical Nurse
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
328.01, 338.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
328.02, 338.02
• Concepts and Principles of Measurement
Understand and use U.S. customary and metric measurements.
329.01, 339.01
Apply the concepts of ratios and proportions.
329.03, 339.03
O'Neil & Associates Chtd. Accountant/CPA
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
328.02, 338.02
RRR Construction Company Lead Estimator
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
Social Security Administration Manager
Grades 7, 8
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
327.01, 337.01
Perform computations accurately.
327.02, 337.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
nbsp; 328.01, 338.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
328.02, 338.02
Idaho Independent Bank Teller
Grades 8, 9-12
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
337.01, 347.01
Perform computations accurately.
337.02, 347.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
338.01, 348.01
Communicate results using appropriate terminology and methods.
338.04, 348.04
Idaho State Tax Commission Management Analyst (1)
Grades 8, 9-12
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
337.01, 347.01
Perform computations accurately.
337.02, 347.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
338.01, 348.01
Idaho State Tax Commission Management Analyst (2)
Grades 8, 9-12
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
337.01, 347.01
Perform computations accurately.
337.02, 347.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
338.01, 348.01
R.T. Nahas Co. Properties - Realtor
Grades 8, 9-12
• Basic Arithmetic, Estimation, and Accurate Computations
Understand and use numbers.
337.01, 347.01
Perform computations accurately.
337.02, 347.02
• Mathematical Reasoning and Problem Solving
Understand and use a variety of problem-solving skills.
338.01, 348.01
Use reasoning skills to recognize problems and express them mathematically.
338.02, 348.02