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Maths Problem Solving

As part of our site learning plan this year, one of our three focus areas is maths problem solving.

Problem solving is one of the capabilities in the new SA curriculum and an essential part of any school mathematics program. For effective problem solving to occur at school, we need a combination of two things: the Problem Solving Process and Problem Solving Strategies.

At Uraidla Primary School, we are using a six-step process to guide students through a range of different problems they encounter during their lessons.

The six steps include:

1. Search: Encourage students to carefully read and underline key parts of the problem to understand what is being asked.
2. Sort: Identify and highlight the important and useful information needed to solve the problem.
3. See/Sketch: Visualise the problem by sketching diagrams, using manipulatives, or organising data in tables.
4. Select: Choose appropriate strategies or operations that will help in solving the problem effectively.
5. Solve: Use the gathered information and selected strategies to find a solution.
6. Sense: Review the solution to ensure it is reasonable and makes sense in the context of the problem.

The process is aimed at assisting students to understand the problem, think about the best way to solve it, and then check for reasonableness. By going through this process, we aim to not only develop the capability of problem-solving but also enhance conceptual understanding, fluency, flexibility, and students' reasoning skills.

If you have any more questions, please make contact, and I'm happy to discuss further.