Math Problem Solving
Mathematics problem solving occurs every day. In a math class, we are often presented with word problems. In our everyday lives, we are routinely given less formal word problems. Whether word problems are given formally or informally, steps are used to help solve the problem.
1) Read the problem.
2) Find the key points you know.
3) What do you need to find?
4) What strategies can you use to find the answer?
5) Find the answer.
6) Check the answer.
Many problems have multiple ways to arrive at the answer. The following problem can be presented to students of varying abilities. They can be encouraged to solve using a specific method based on their prior mathematical knowledge. The following is an example of such a problem.
1) Read the problem.
2) Find the key points you know.
3) What do you need to find?
4) What strategies can you use to find the answer?
5) Find the answer.
6) Check the answer.
Many problems have multiple ways to arrive at the answer. The following problem can be presented to students of varying abilities. They can be encouraged to solve using a specific method based on their prior mathematical knowledge. The following is an example of such a problem.
My Favorite Math Problem
Old MacDonald's Farm
Old MacDonald's farm was full of chickens and pigs. There are 26 animals' heads and 70 feet among them all. How many are chickens and how many are pigs?
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