Chapter 3 – Problem Solving

Calls for reform repeatedly include the need to improve the teaching and learning of mathematics by engaging students in

more problem-solving tasks

George Polya

• Understand the problem– Examine the information, Identify the question

• Devise a Plan– Make a list, Draw a picture, Guess and check

• Carry out the plan– Modify as needed

• Look back– Make sure the answer is reasonable

NCTM Standard

• Build new mathematical knowledge through problem solving

• Solve problems that arise in mathematics and other contexts

• Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems

• Monitor and reflect on the process of mathematical problem solving

NET-S Standard

• Students use technology resources for solving problems and making informed decisions

• Students employ technology in the development of strategies for solving problems in the real world

Two important issues

• Via technology, “problem solving can focus on more real-life issues and on the process of problem solving…rather than the complicated mathematical computations.

• Rather than teaching students about problem solving, educators need to think about teaching students via problem solving. (Masingila, Lester, and aymond, 2001)

Guess and Check Method

• Page 79 of the text – Problems on ticket sales and temperature conversion– Using the spread sheet – page 79 of text– Using a sequence and list on TI 83– Using y-variables on TI 83

Portfolio Activity 2Web Searching Strategies

Sample Table

TI – INTERACTIVE TUTORIAL

(see handouts)