Problem Solving in Math is Personal
Posted by David Wetzel
Math Problem Solving
Problem solving in math is a mental process and is part of the larger process that includes identifying what problem must be solved.
The main reason for learning math is to become better problem solvers in all aspects of life.
Many problems are multistep processes and require some type of systematic approach.
Problem Solving is Personal
The ability to solve problems is the foundation of mathematics. For a student in any grade in school, the road to understanding math is through the problem solving gateway. This is not to be confused with completing worksheets; these are real world personal problems which require logical thinking and reasoning skills to solve.
For example:
- How many songs can be downloaded from iTunes with $7.75?
- How much to charge a neighbor for cutting their grass?
- How many cars do I need to wash to buy a new video game, when charging $5.00 each car wash?
To develop the ability to solve problems, children need to make a personal connection as they visualize, touch, and see the problem. In grades K – 7, children cannot think in the abstract like adults. Most children, but not all, begin to develop abstract thinking in the 8th grade.
Math Problems
When developing math problems, the topics must be appropriate for the grade level and cultural environment of the child.
For example:
- Rural farming communities should use examples which are farm related.
- Suburban schools should use examples related to the community and the child’s life.
- Urban settings need to use examples related to the child’s environment.
Regardless of the setting, math problems are everywhere; making it personal and meaningful is critical for stimulating problem solving.
Additional problem solving exercises include:
- How many marbles will fit inside a jar? They determine the volume in the jar. Next determine a reasonable estimate of the number of marbles by using similar materials.
- Cooking – using fractions for baking.
Resources
12 Tips for Solving Word Problems: Teaching Children How to Solve Math Problems
Math Problems: Order of Operations
