Trains, Planes, and Lawnmowers or The Gentle Art of Solving Algebra Word Problems Contents The gentle art of solving algebra word problems How to solve "solution" word problems Using algebra word problems to teach students how to think

These are  instructions for students on how to systematically set up and solve the types of word problems (solution, mixture, coin-stamp-ticket, interest, motion, work) commonly found in algebra textbooks.  The method uses a 5-step procedure.  Central to the method is the use of the rough equation/finished equation approach to forming the equation to be solved.
 

This is a discussion for educators concerning who our students are, why we should teach word problems, and how we can do a better job of teaching them.  The above How to solve "solution" word problems illustrates the methodology.