A Problem Solving Classroom

 A climate that is conducive to problem solving is as important as the math problems themselves. My goal is for the students to feel comfortable playing around with numbers, problems, and solutions, as well as learning to throw up their hands whenever they hit a bump in the road. They should feel free to experiment, think, talk, talk about their thinking, and make mistakes. Successful problem solving cannot happen in an environment that stresses doing the problem alone, getting the right answer, or doing the problem only one way. When students are encouraged to explore, be open-minded, curious, and make guesses- successful problem solving behavior will flourish :)

One of the many reasons I love teaching math to third graders is because they're capable of understanding an array of methods and ways to reach one common answer. Consulting various resources regarding problem solving, including those within our EnVision curriculum, has shown that there are many different lists of problem solving strategies. 

Because there will more than likely be more than one way to solve any given problem, teaching a variety of these strategies is key.  I've grouped the essential strategies into 5 categories: draw a picture or diagram, use manipulatives, extend a repeating pattern, make a table/list/chart, and choose relevant information.

While the students are learning that they can use whichever strategy works best for them, a few things will always remain consistent.  I refer to these as the 4 stages of problem solving: understanding the problem, devising a plan, solving the problem, and checking the problem. 

At this stage in the game the boys and girls know how to check for understanding of a problem.  We are currently working within the "devise a plan" (pick a strategy) stage, as well as the "solve the problem" stage.