UNIT 5

• PROBLEM SOLVING - It is a process. It requires critical thinking, ability to make decisions, use the correct strategy to find the solution and check the result.
• PROBLEM SOLVING

  • Routine Problem
  • Non-Routine Problem
• Problem Solving Strategies

  1. GUESS - This includes Guess-and-check and guess-and-improve.
  2. ACT IT OUT - Act it out and use equipment.
  3. DRAW - This includes drawing pictures and diagrams
  4. LIST/TABULATE - This includes making a table.
• GEORGE POLYA (1945) - Described mathematical problem solving as finding a way around a difficulty and finding a solution to a problem that is unknown.
• Method is called - “Polya’s Four-Step Approach to Problem Solving” and is discussed in his book “How to Solve It” (1945).
• Routine Problems - Common word problems (like those from elementary to high school). Predictable, often solved using arithmetic and algebraic methods.
• Non-Routine Problems - Less common. Requires creative thinking
• How to Approach Problem Solving

  • Understand the Problem
  • Devise a Plan
  • Carry Out the Plan
  • Look Back