Before you can begin to solve a challenging problem, think about the following.
1. Read the problem for clarity.
Do you understand the problem and what it is asking? This includes any math vocabulary that might be part of the problem.
2. Decide on a strategy you will use to solve.
Will you use a picture, tally, table, list or chart?
Are there any patterns?
Can you talk it through?
3. Can you work backward?
4. Is your answer sensible, given the information you have?
5. When you have a solution, go over your work carefully.
6. If you do not have a solution, refer to the Helpful HInt for this particular problem.
The Problem Solving Process
Before you can begin to solve a challenging problem, think about the following.
1. Read the problem for clarity.
Do you understand the problem and what it is asking? This includes any math vocabulary that might be part of the problem.
2. Decide on a strategy you will use to solve.
Will you use a picture, tally, table, list or chart?
Are there any patterns?
Can you talk it through?
3. Can you work backward?
4. Is your answer sensible, given the information you have?
5. When you have a solution, go over your work carefully.
6. If you do not have a solution, refer to the Helpful HInt for this particular problem.