Problem solving is an integral part of mathematics learning. Students should regularly work on tasks where the solution path is not readily apparent and where solving the problem requires more than just merely applying a familiar procedure. "Solving problems is not only a goal of learning mathematics but also a major means of doing so. Students should have frequent opportunities to formulate, grapple with, and solve complex problems that require a significant amount of effort and should then be encouraged to reflect on their thinking" (NCTM, 2000, p. 52). As students think about new problems, they not only learn how to solve similar ones, they can also develop new skills and ideas.

This session shows you how to help students do the following:

• Learn new mathematical ideas through problem solving
• Develop and use different strategies for solving problems
• Make connections between problems with similar mathematical content
• Reflect on the relative effectiveness of various problem-solving approaches

Instructional programs . . . should enable all students to --

• Build new mathematical knowledge through problem solving
• Solve problems that arise in mathematics and in other contexts
• Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems
• Monitor and reflect on the process of mathematical problem solving

Principles and Standards of School Mathematics (NCTM, 2000). For more information on this Process Standard, see the NCTM Web site

  Observe a math problem