29. FIVE-STEP PROBLEM SOLVING (Writing, Discussion, Collaboration, Feedback)
Description: Understanding the process for solving word problems can be daunting for some students. This five-step approach enables students to see that various methods within the same word problem can lead to the same answer.
Application: This method is best used for students solving mathematical word problems.
Process: Locate/create word problems for students to use. Hand out template (addendum below) or ask students to create the chart on their own paper. Introduce students to the layout and purpose of the graphic organizer, emphasizing that the start and end is at the same place, but with many ways to solve the problems in-between. Using an example, model and explain each step. Offer another word problem for practice. Group the students into trios, hand out assignment and tell them to solve word problems using the five steps. Once finished, combine two groups of trios and challenge them to compare their organizers by asking critical questions (Did the answers match? How did each group’s step three and four look alike or look different?). Supply students with other word problems to practice the method.
Description: Understanding the process for solving word problems can be daunting for some students. This five-step approach enables students to see that various methods within the same word problem can lead to the same answer.
Application: This method is best used for students solving mathematical word problems.
Process: Locate/create word problems for students to use. Hand out template (addendum below) or ask students to create the chart on their own paper. Introduce students to the layout and purpose of the graphic organizer, emphasizing that the start and end is at the same place, but with many ways to solve the problems in-between. Using an example, model and explain each step. Offer another word problem for practice. Group the students into trios, hand out assignment and tell them to solve word problems using the five steps. Once finished, combine two groups of trios and challenge them to compare their organizers by asking critical questions (Did the answers match? How did each group’s step three and four look alike or look different?). Supply students with other word problems to practice the method.
Reference and/or for more information:
29. Five-Step Problem Solving
http://www.rmcdenver.com/adx/aspx/adxGetMedia.aspx?DocID=125
Braselton. Decker (1994). Using Graphic Organizers to Improve the Reading of Mathematics.
29. Five-Step Problem Solving
http://www.rmcdenver.com/adx/aspx/adxGetMedia.aspx?DocID=125
Braselton. Decker (1994). Using Graphic Organizers to Improve the Reading of Mathematics.