I have been using a 4 square approach. I have gleaned the steps from different workshops, so it probably is not exactly the way it would be in any one source, but this is my take on it!

In the 1st box, I labeled "What I need to know", and they copy the exact question from the problem. In the 2nd box, I labeled "What I know" and have instructed them to write the important numbers and operation. In the 3rd box, I labeled "the problem" and they show their work there. The fourth box is "The solution" and they show the answer and label it there.
The students then have an outline to guide them in their written essay.
I guide them through problems that are very easy at first. Right now, we are solving Christmas themed stories.
Hope this helps.
Romona