Problem-Solving Instruction
Recommended Practice: Teach students to use visual representations, employ multiple problem-solving strategies, and relate mathematical concepts and notation to problem solving.
- Overview & Tools: Video overviews and professional development materials
- Learn What Works: Expert interviews about problem-solving instruction
- See How It Works: Videos and sample materials from schools
Using Visual Representations
Problem Solving > Problem-Solving Instruction > See How It Works
Teachers can use these examples for ideas to help students create visual representations for different types of problems.
Resource Type
Sample Material
Fraction Problem: Part of a Part
Problem Solving > Problem-Solving Instruction > See How It Works
Grade 6 students at Patriot Elementary use several strategies to solve a real-world, part of a part problem. This sample material has the scenario and statement of the problem along with pictures...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Pre-Algebra Fencing Task
Problem Solving > Problem-Solving Instruction > See How It Works
At Papillion Junior High School, seventh-grade students work in groups on a non-routine geometry problem. This sample material has a fencing task worksheet and photos of students’ presentations of...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Problems: Connecting Mathematical Ideas to Notation
Problem Solving > Problem-Solving Instruction > See How It Works
In the media piece, Connecting Mathematical Ideas to Notation, Dr. Sybilla Beckmann presents two examples of problems showing how students can connect mathematical concepts and notation. This...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Connecting Visuals to Problem Types
Problem Solving > Problem-Solving Instruction > Overview & Tools
Math coaches and teachers can use this tool as a quick reference for examples of visual representations for different types of problems. See the sample material, Using Visual Representations for...
Resource Type
Tool
Learning Together About Using Visuals That Support Problem Solving
Problem Solving > Problem-Solving Instruction > Overview & Tools
Math coaches can use this tool to help elementary and middle school teachers learn about the role of visual representations in problem solving through a series of professional development...
Resource Type
Tool
Walk-Throughs: Teaching Problem Solving
Problem Solving > Problem-Solving Instruction > Overview & Tools
Instructional leaders can use this tool to frame observational walk-throughs of elementary and middle school math classes. Related Media and Files: Improving Mathematical Problem Solving in...
Resource Type
Tool
Observation Note-Taking: Reflections on Multiple Approaches to Problem Solving
Problem Solving > Problem-Solving Instruction > Overview & Tools
Teachers and mathematics coaches can use this tool to keep track of the approaches to problems used by different pairs and groups of students. The purpose of the tool is to provide a summary of the...
Resource Type
Tool
