Problem Solving
Problem Solving
Problem Solving
Are you ready to tackle a math
problem with confidence?
Do you have a briefcase filled with
problem-solving strategies that help
when you encounter a new problem?
Do you get confused about how to
solve problems?
UNDERSTAND
Restate the problem
Highlight or identify important facts
Determine the question or problem to be
solved
DEVISE A PLAN
making a table, chart or
graph
using estimation
making a list
acting out the problem
guess and check
working backward
finding a pattern
solving multi-step problems
drawing pictures or
diagrams
interpreting remainders
making and using model
using formulas
choosing an operation
solving a simpler
problem
writing a number
sentence or equation
SOLVE
LOOK BACK
Before Actions
During Actions
After Actions
Interviewing students
Interviews
Resources
One Riddle, One Answer by Lauren Thompson http://lswstudio.homestead.com/books.html
Greg Tangs Math Riddles - http://www.gregtang.com/
NCTM Principles and Standards: Problem Solving http://standards.nctm.org/document/chapter3/prob.htm
TMC Problem Solvers:
http://my.nctm.org/eresources/toc.asp?journal_id=4&Issue_id=775
Math is Everywhere: A Problem Solving Teaching Unit http://www.yale.edu/ynhti/curriculum/units/1980/7/80.07.10.x.html
Math Problem Solving Strategies http://www.qerhs.k12.nf.ca/projects/mathproblems/intro.html
Figure This - http://www.figurethis.org/
The Futures Channel - http://www.thefutureschannel.com/index.php
Navigating Through Problem Solving and Reasoning in Grade 3 by Karol Yeatts
http://my.nctm.org/eBusiness/ProductCatalog/product.aspx?ID=12719
Navigating Through Problem Solving and Reasoning in Grade 4 by Karol Yeatts
http://my.nctm.org/eBusiness/ProductCatalog/product.aspx?ID=12886
Navigating Through Problem Solving and Reasoning in Grade 5 by Karol Yeatts
http://my.nctm.org/eBusiness/ProductCatalog/product.aspx?ID=13012
Summary
Problem solving MUST be an integral
part of mathematics program.
Mathematics programs must include
different types of problems.
Teachers must teach problem solving
strategies.
Build in success
Praise effort and risk taking
Use non-evaluative responses
Listen to many students
Use cooperative work
Show enthusiasm toward problem solving
Model problem solving behaviors