Problem+Solving


 * What message are we sending our students when we teach them to look for KEY words such as "altogether", "difference", "sum"?...It's not important to read the problem, ignore the context, abandon your prior knowledge.
 * Problem Solving should take place in the classroom EVERYDAY. Not just on "Problem Solving Friday" or every other week.
 * Problem Solving needs to continue to **challenge and push students** when they are ready for the skills.
 * Students need Problem Solving **Strategies** (i.e. Make a model, Act it out, Find a pattern, Work backward, Draw a picture, Make a table, Use logical reasoning, Solve a simpler problem, Make an organized list, write an equation, draw a diagram, Predict/test)
 * Apply comprehension strategies you teach in reading to increase comprehension skills in problem solving.



 **Teaching Student Centered Mathematics - Van de Walle**

Making Math Thinkers Draw a Story Problem

Marcy Cook Materials We have a variety of these materials available for you to check out and use in your classroom. See the list below:







Formative Assessment Lessons NCTM Illuminations Henri Picciotto Math Activities

"What is the __largest amount of money in coins__ you can have, but still not be able to make change for a dollar evenly?"
 * Here's a problem for you to try: (Good Luck! Feel free to email me your answer.)**