Problem Solving
Explore resources designed to help students become skilled problem solvers in grades 4 through 8. 
- View a visual diagram of all three practices
- Watch a topic overview and download planning templates
- Listen to an expert
Explore the subtopics below to learn more about the recommended practices:
To learn more about the research underlying these practices, view the IES Practice Guide, Improving Mathematical Problem Solving in Grades 4 Through 8.
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...
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
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
Coaching Checklist for Problem Planning
Problem Solving > Prepare Problems > Overview & Tools
Instructional leaders and mathematics coaches can use this self-assessment to reflect on their practices in supporting teachers to plan lessons and to guide students in learning to be competent...
Resource Type
Tool
Learning Together About Preparing Problems
Problem Solving > Prepare Problems > Overview & Tools
Instructional leaders can use this workshop plan to help elementary and middle-grades teachers learn about the importance of preparing problems for use in whole-class instruction. Included is a...
Resource Type
Tool
Planning and Adapting Problems
Problem Solving > Prepare Problems > Overview & Tools
Instructional leaders and teachers can use this planning worksheet to guide adaptation of problems to ensure that students understand a problem. The goal is to develop problems that allow students...
Resource Type
Tool
Problem Solving Planning Template #1
Problem Solving > Overview & Tools
For working with schools on identifing the strategies that are already in place to support effective problem-solving instruction and determine what additional steps could be taken to strengthen...
Resource Type
Planning Template
Problem Solving Planning Template #4
Problem Solving > Overview & Tools
This tool shows alignment with Common Core State Standards, for planning professional development.
Resource Type
Planning Template
Problem Solving Planning Template #2
Problem Solving > Overview & Tools
For working with districts on recommendations from the IES Practice Guide on problem-solving instruction. The intent is for district leaders to apply the recommendations to the design of...
Resource Type
Planning Template
Problem Solving Planning Template #3
Problem Solving > Overview & Tools
For working with state education agencies on setting a policy climate for improving teacher quality in math, specifically related to problem solving.
Resource Type
Planning Template