Problem Solving Unit 1 Lesson 1

Objective: 1.01a Select or create a graphical display for a given set of data.

TLW: Use a matrix diagram to solve problems

Essential ?: How do I set up the matrix diagram and how do I know where to start?

When are matrix diagrams used?

• A typical use of the Matrix Diagram to compare two lists is where the list on the left represents a problem (the 'what') and the list above represents a solution to that problem (the 'how'). For example, the first list details customer requirements for a product, whilst the second list shows how this is translated into design specifications. The relationship values now can be used to identify specific problems and other points of interest.

syque.com/quality_tools/toolbook/Matrix/how.htm

Wh

at is

a

matrix

d

iag

ram

?

Problem Solving Strategies Used

• Process of elimination

• Matrix logic

• Guess and Check

• Diagrams

The Problem:• Fred, Kent, Allie, and Jane (two sets of siblings)

each have a favorite sport: running, biking, swimming and golf. Given the following clues, construct a matrix to help determine who likes which sport. Fred hates golf. He agrees with Mark Twain that golf is nothing but a good walk spoiled. Kent wouldn’t run around the block if he didn’t have to, and neither would his sister. Each sisters favorite sport is featured in a triathlon. Allie bought her brother a new bike for his birthday to use in his favorite sport.

Ask Yourself

• What events am I comparing and how many are there?

• Is there anything I can cross out right away?

• If it helps make a list of what you know and what you need to know.

Nicholas, Emma, Amber, Kyle, and Matthew have one of the following jobs: writer, programmer, chemist, teacher, and carpenter. Their salaries are $51,900, $62,300, $57,400, $67,500, and $60,900. Figure out the salary and job for each person.

1.   The chemist earns $57,400.2.   The teacher earns $60,900.3.   The programmer earns more than the writer.4.   Amber is not a chemist or a writer.5.   Kyle is not a writer or a chemist.6.   The teacher earns more than the chemist.7.   The writer does not earn $62,300.8.   The chemist earns more than the writer.9.   Nicholas is not a programmer or a carpenter.10.   Matthew is not a writer or a programmer.11.   The programmer earns more than the chemist.12.   The programmer does not earn $60,900.13.   The carpenter does not earn $60,900.14.   Kyle is not a carpenter or a programmer.15.   The carpenter earns more than the chemist.16.   Emma is not a teacher or a chemist.17.   The programmer earns more than the carpenter.18.   Matthew is not a chemist or a teacher.

The Set Up

You Try:

• You have two problems you will need to solve. Each person needs their own sheet, but you may work with your partner on finding the right answer.

• Remember the strategies.

Closing

• Puzzle # 1