In third grade, solving math problems cooperatively is a task at which few students are proficient. However, improving this ability can help students achieve a deeper understanding of math. The goal of this action research was to help teachers learn how to better enable their students to collaborate on problem solving in math, and learn about likely obstacles and possible sources of help. By developing problem solving and collaborative skills, teachers can help struggling students improve math skills and become more independent thinkers. Problem solving in math for third graders was defined as solving problems that did not numerically tell students what operation to perform. Working cooperatively was defined as students working together towards a common goal. The researcher video recorded groups of students working together in collaborative sessions to ascertain whether they collaborated and whether they solved their problem correctly. Attempts to solve math problems correctly and collaboratively were met with varying levels of success depending on students' previous academic performance and social status, among other factors. The researcher looked for explanations for the disparities such as gender, status in the classroom, and incoming math comprehension.