1. Problem Solving EDN 322

2. NCTM process standards Problem solving Reasoning and proof Communication Connections Representation

3. What is problem solving? Actively exploring a situation for which no immediate answer is available.

4. NCTM process standards Problem solving Reasoning and proof Communication Connections Representation

5. Teaching Problem Solving (Reys, et.al.) Instruction should build on what children already know. Students should be engaged in problem solving in the early grades. Problem solving strategies can be taught.

6. Teaching Problem Solving (con’t) No one strategy is optimal for solving all problems. Students need to be presented with problems in which the way to solve them is not apparent.

7. 4-step Model for Problem Solving (Polya, 1973) 1. Understand the problem. 2. Devise a plan for solving it. 3. Carry out your plan. 4. Look back to examine the solution obtained.

8. BUILD THE HIGHEST TOWER Build a tower using the following materials 1. 2 pieces of paper 2. Scissors 3. Masking tape 4. 10 paper clips The tower is to be free standing. The challenge is to build the highest tower.