Problem Solving Strategies In Mathematics From Common Approaches To Exemplary Strategies

This book introduces ten problem-solving strategies by first presenting the strategy and then applying it to problems in elementary mathematics. In doing so, first the common approach is shown, and then a more elegant strategy is provided. Elementary mathematics is used so that the reader can focus on the strategy and not be distracted by some more sophisticated mathematics.

A unique collection of competition problems from over twenty major national and international mathematical competitions for high school students. Written for trainers and participants of contests of all levels up to the highest level, this will appeal to high school teachers conducting a mathematics club who need a range of simple to complex problems and to those instructors wishing to pose a "problem of the week", thus bringing a creative atmosphere into the classrooms. Equally, this is a must-have for individuals interested in solving difficult and challenging problems. Each chapter starts with typical examples illustrating the central concepts and is followed by a number of carefully selected problems and their solutions. Most of the solutions are complete, but some merely point to the road leading to the final solution. In addition to being a valuable resource of mathematical problems and solution strategies, this is the most complete training book on the market.

This updated edition presents ten strategies that are effective tools for teaching students how to solve problems, both in mathematics and in real-life situations. The authors demonstrate how the strategies can be used to solve a wide range of problems and provide about 200 examples that illustrate how teachers can include these techniques in their mathematics curriculum. In many cases, the methods presented make the solution of a problem easier, neater, and more understandable-and thereby more enjoyable. This new edition includes references to current standards, revisions and clarifications throughout the text, and a number of new problems that can be used to teach the different strategies.

"Demonstrates problem solving strategies with solutions and teaching notes and allows the teacher to create a collection of problems to fit a particular grade level."-Janice L. Richardson, Associate Professor and Education Coordinator, Department of MathematicsElon UniversityHelp students succeed as problem solvers in and out of the classroom! Problem solving skills are critical to students' success in mathematics, but the techniques can't be caught; they must be taught. Based on the premise that educators must take a deliberate approach to the teaching of problem solving skills, this book helps teachers engage students in the process. Problem Solving in Mathematics, Grades 3-6 stresses the importance of problem solving in mathematics and presents nine strategies that students can use to solve problems, such as working backwards, finding a pattern, making a drawing, or solving a simpler equivalent problem. Each chapter demonstrates how teachers can:Apply the strategies to problems at different grade levels Incorporate these strategies into a mathematics program Understand how each strategy can be applied to real-life situations Make each strategy an integral part of students' thinking processesWith helpful teaching notes, sample problems for students that fit into any mathematics curriculum, and step-by-step solutions to sample problems, this book is perfect for teachers who want their students to succeed in mathematics!

This book contributes to the field of mathematical problem solving by exploring current themes, trends and research perspectives. It does so by addressing five broad and related dimensions: problem solving heuristics, problem solving and technology, inquiry and problem posing in mathematics education, assessment of and through problem solving, and the problem solving environment. Mathematical problem solving has long been recognized as an important aspect of mathematics, teaching mathematics, and learning mathematics. It has influenced mathematics curricula around the world, with calls for the teaching of problem solving as well as the teaching of mathematics through problem solving. And as such, it has been of interest to mathematics education researchers for as long as the field has existed. Research in this area has generally aimed at understanding and relating the processes involved in solving problems to students’ development of mathematical knowledge and problem solving skills. The accumulated knowledge and field developments have included conceptual frameworks for characterizing learners’ success in problem solving activities, cognitive, metacognitive, social and affective analysis, curriculum proposals, and ways to promote problem solving approaches.

Foreword by Nobel Laureate Herbert A. Hauptman The authors present ten strategies, illustrated through 200 problems, that you can incorporate into your curriculum to help your students become effective problem solvers.

The art or skill of problem solving in mathematics is mostly relegated to the strategies one can use to solve problems in the field. Although this book addresses that issue, it delves deeply into the psychological aspects that affect successful problem-solving. Such topics as decision-making, judgment, and reasoning as well as using memory effectively and a discussion of the thought processes that could help address certain problem-solving situations.Most books that address problem-solving and mathematics focus on the various skills. This book goes beyond that and investigates the psychological aspects to solving problems in mathematics.

This is a practical anthology of some of the best elementary problems in different branches of mathematics. Arranged by subject, the problems highlight the most common problem-solving techniques encountered in undergraduate mathematics. This book teaches the important principles and broad strategies for coping with the experience of solving problems. It has been found very helpful for students preparing for the Putnam exam.