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Math Problem Solving

Math problem solving in elementary school requires teaching problem solving strategies. Use the powerpoint to teach simple maths problem solving!

$math problem solving$

Problem solving activities are part of every day life. Teaching math problem solving strategies provides our students with choices of how to solve for an unknown answer, improves students abilities to choose appropriate strategies, and scaffolds support for improving self-concepts about abilities to problem solve.

We always want to improve students' abilities to get the correct answer, but the learning process in knowing how to choose a strategy is most important.

There are different problem solving methods and students need to know how to make an appropriate choice.

Problem solving exercises are chosen with the goal of either teaching a strategy or practicing a technique to mastery.

Daily problem solving is a must. Children need continual practice with problem solving activities for their skills to become fluid.

One way to do this is to start with teaching problem solving steps.

4 Steps for Maths Problem Solving

1. Understand the Problem
Read and re-read. State the problem in your own words. Identify key math words and phrases that signal mathematical processes (in all = adding; difference = subtraction). Determine what the question is asking you to actually do. Cross out distractors.

2. Make a Plan
Choose a strategy. Think back to similar problem solving exercises and recall what was successfully used.

3. Try It Out
Go step-by-step with the problem solving strategies chosen. Draw pictures to show each step is correct. Self-talk your way through the problem.

4. Look Back
Always check your work. Did you actually answer the question? Did you use all relevant data? Does your answer make sense?

^{Reference
George Polya, "How to Solve It," Princeton University Press, Princeton (1945)}

Maths Problem Solving Using Singapore Math

Here is another way to teach basic problem solving in math. Try using this presentation on your SmartBoard to aid teaching elementary problem solving.

To see the bar system used in Singapore Math problem solving, go to Problem Solving Strategies and watch the video.

Problem Solving

See more presentations by sdipple | Upload your own PowerPoint presentations

Once you have taught the 4 Basic Steps, it is time to teach specific problem solving strategies.

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