1. A Problem Solving Framework
Based on the work of
Heller & Heller
University of Minnesota

2. The traditional “GUESS” method
Givens - Identify the “given” information
Unknown - Identify what is wanted
Equation - Select equation for solution
Solution - Solve equation for unknown
Survey - Make certain solution is realistic

3. Physics Problem-Solving Strategy
A better metacognitive approach to solving problems
Provides students with a more structured approach to solving problems, especially early on in the semester
5 steps:
Focus on the problem
Describe the physics
Plan the solution
Execute solution plan
Evaluate the solution

4. Focus on the Problem

5. Describe the Physics

6. Plan a Solution

7. Execute the Plan

8. Evaluate the Solution

9. Using the Competent Problem Solver Answer Sheet: Example 1
An airplane lands on a runway at 175mph. The plane uniformly slows to a stop over a distance of 4049ft. What is the average acceleration in meters/second squared? How many g’s does this represent?

10. Using the Competent Problem Solver Answer Sheet: Example 2
A car’s initial mass and velocity are m and v respectively. A truck’s mass and velocity are M and -V respectively. Assuming a head-on collision where they stick together, what is the speed of the vehicles immediately after the collision? The truck is twice the mass of the car; the speed of the car is one-half that of the truck.

11. Using the Competent Problem Solver Answer Sheet: Example 3
A toy rocket leaves the surface of the Earth with an acceleration of 35m/s2. After 1.3s, the rocket engine expires. Assuming no wind resistance as it coasts upward, how high does the rocket go?