When one comes across a problem that seems like it's too hard to solve, many give up. However, when equipped with the right strategies, there's no problem in this world that is impossible. As the saying goes, an elephant is eaten one little piece at a time and the same goes for problem solving. Have a look at the steps below that are meant for solving typical school math written problems.
- Read the task through carefully TWO TIMES.
- What is the QUESTION? Highlight it.
- What is known? Circle all pieces of information there are.
- Make a drawing of the problem.
- How can you solve the problem?
- Write an expression
- Calculate
- Check whether your answer makes any sense!
Exercises for Problem solving strategy:
A 30m long rope is used to make a rectangle that is 4m wider than its length. Calculate the width and length of the rectangle using a linear equation.
CDs were sold for a discount of 5,40€. Jane calculated that 7 CDs now cost the same as 5 CDs with the normal price. What is the price before the discount?
Jane, Rita and Howard get 51€ for plowing all the snow of their neighbours driveways. They split the money as follows: Rita gets 7€ more than Howard and Jane, who worked the most, gets twice the amount of Rita and Howard combined. How much money do they each get?
