I have 12 word problems to do for my class today.

I am not very good at them.
Any suggestions on how to set them up?

they vary from question to question

Turn the word problems into equations, and solve for the unknown quantity or quantities.

Why not give us one or two examples to show you the process?

A model rocket is launched vertically upward from the top of a cliff 144 feet above sea level. This translates to the model y = -16t^2 + 128t + 144 where y is the height in feet and t is the time in seconds after it was launched. After it is launched, when will the rocket hit the water?

It will hit the water when y = 0. You have to solve the quadratic equation.

You can rewrite it (by dividing both sides by -16)
t^2 - 8t - 9 = 0
which factors to
(t-9)(t+1) = 0

Therefore t = 9 seconds is when it hits the ground. The other solution t = -1 second has no meaning

A ball is dropped from a height of 64 feet. It's height above the earth is the feet given by h(t)=-16t^2+64, where t is the number of seconds after it is dropped

a Find h(1)
b how long does it take the ball to fall to the earth

When approaching word problems, it can be helpful to have a systematic approach that you can apply to any problem, regardless of the specific details. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you set up and solve word problems:

1. Read the problem carefully: Take your time to understand what the problem is asking, identifying the specific information provided and what needs to be determined.

2. Identify the unknowns: Figure out what you are trying to find in the problem. It could be the value of something, a ratio, a time, etc. Highlight or underline these unknowns.

3. Define variables: Assign variables to the unknown quantities in the problem. For example, if the problem asks for the price of an item, you could use 'p' to represent the price.

4. Organize the given information: Write down any relevant information from the problem and organize it in a clear and logical way. Lists, tables, or diagrams can be useful for this step to help you understand the relationships between different quantities.

5. Identify the relationships: Look for any relationships or equations that relate the given information and the unknowns. This might involve using formulas or applying mathematical concepts.

6. Set up an equation or inequality: Convert the information and relationships identified in step 5 into a mathematical equation or inequality. This equation should represent the problem and allow you to solve for the unknown quantity.

7. Solve the equation: Use your math skills and techniques to solve the equation or inequality. This could involve simplifying, rearranging, factoring, or using any appropriate method.

8. Check your answer: Once you find a solution, make sure it satisfies the conditions stated in the problem. Double-checking your answer helps ensure its accuracy.

9. Communicate your solution: Present your answer in a clear and concise manner, including units if applicable. If necessary, answer any additional questions or explain your reasoning.

By following these steps, you can set up and solve word problems more effectively. Practice is crucial as well, so make sure to solve a variety of word problems to strengthen your skills. Good luck!