GRADE 7: Weekly Math Problem Solving: Problem #3

Name: ___________________ Date: _____________________

Be sure to show all of your work and your reasoning. Consider all possibilities and
explain each step in your method. Refer to your rubric for all parts needed to
achieve the maximum score. Be sure to follow the steps of problem solving we used
in the classroom:

Step 1: Read the Problem

Step 2: What is the problem asking me to solve?
Step 3: Is there any information I do not understand? Find out what it means.
Step 4: List all the information that is given to you.
Step 5: Select a strategy to solve this problem.
Step 6: Show all your steps to achieve a solution. Include a concluding statement.

Problem #3:

The elevator in Melissa's apartment building has a sign that says, "Weight not to
exceed 800 pounds." Every time Melissa rides in the elevator, she reads the sign
and wonders how many people could take the elevator and still stay under the limit.
She decides to collect some information by asking her brothers, mother, and some
of her neighbours about their weights. They give her this information:

Melissa: 70 lbs.
Richard: I weigh the same as Zeke, our dog.
Steve: In Roman numerals, I weigh LXXXV lbs.
Mom: I weigh twice as much as you do.
Mr. Tristano: I used to weigh 180 lbs., but I lost 15 lbs.
Daniella Tristano: I weigh 20 lbs. more than half of my dad's old weight.
Zeke: 190 lbs. minus Mom's weight.

a) If they all get into the elevator together, how close are they to the allowance?

b) Suppose each person and the dog has a twin with the same weight
who lives in the building. Which twin(s) could get in the elevator with
the group above to bring the total weight closest to 800 pounds
without exceeding the weight limit? List all combinations.