Solving Problems Teacher Resources

Although a rather complicated topic, this video clearly explains the concept of solving problems involving similar triangles. It employs problem-solving to determine whether two figures are similar triangles. In addition, it provides...

"Just to really, really get the point drilled into your head," Sal continues his lecture on factoring quadratic expressions, focusing on special products. He works to instill the problem-solving skills necessary to quickly and...

Scholars build a simple filtration system to remove impurities from muddy water and rate the filtered water to a grade of clarity scale. The focus is on teamwork and problem solving. This instructional activity would be effective in your...

Taking time to thoroughly explain and work through problems 15-16, Sal models careful reading and problem solving. He begins problem 17 but continues it in the next video.

In this chemistry olympiad problem solving worksheet, chemistry pupils solve eight problems on a variety of topics including periodic trends, phase changes, ionization reactions, catalysts and titrations.

Beginning a "handful of fairly simple inequality videos," Sal demonstrates a few inequality problems in which mathematicians need to add or subtract. Though he states that his goal is to familiarize viewers with the notation, his...

Physics apprentices analyze the impact of NASA's Impactor as it collided with the comet Tempel 1 in July of 2005. They calculate the mass and speed of the comet, along with the distance it might drift off of its orbit over time. This...

Modeling quick thinking and efficient problem solving, Sal works through the linear equation in problem 1 in just over 30 seconds. This video, which covers problems 1-5 on page 530 of The Official SAT Study Guide, also shows students how...

Start with the basics and move up the exponential ladder to master a variety of problem-solving and application problems. The problems are heavy on exponential growth and decay, compound interest, and natural log.  

Sal reviews absolute value equations by taking viewers through a careful and deliberate problem-solving process. Those who didn't thoroughly understand absolute value during class will appreciate Sal's steady and straightforward...

Think inside the box with KenKen® puzzles to provide some problem solving practice. These puzzles are similar to Sudoku, but require computation inside designated boxes. There are multiple puzzles with a range of difficulties to...

A great resource for any math teacher covering multiples, factors or square roots; this worksheet walks young mathematicians through the logic behind factoring and square roots with a systematic set of problems which gradually increase...

This is an intriguing problem that brings together real-world data, technology, and mathematical problem solving. If visibility wasn't an issue, could you see from the highest point in the lower 48 states, Mt. Whitney, to the lowest...

A new SAT practice session (from page 669 of The Official SAT Study Guide) begins with problems 1-5. Sal demonstrates quick thinking and contemplative problem solving as he moves efficiently from one equation to the next.

Introducing slope as "a way of measuring the inclination of a line," Sal endeavors to provide a working knowledge of slope problems and problem-solving. The video is framed as a review but could be a good way to fill any holes in...

How does the formation of currents and waves in the ocean happen? High schoolers will learn about the primary causes for ocean currents and waves by calculating a wave's amplitude and nautical mile speed. Then they will complete a...

You've got the power! With this physics midterm, you have the power to assess learners' grasp of electricity concepts. The exam is neatly formatted and provides a variety of question types: true or false, multiple choice, and problem...

The University of Hawaii has published a vast collection of midterm and final exams for their Physics 152 course. This particular exam offers a variety of assessment methods, and covers the topic of electromagnetic radiation....

SAT test-takers get to review median numbers, perimeters, right angles, slopes, and prime factorization in this video, which focuses on problems 13-16. Sal's even pace and methodical problem solving will bolster the confidence of even...

With pen in hand and diagrams at the ready, Sal demonstrates problem-solving and test-taking skills in this informative video. Problems 7-9 involve inequalities, linear equations, and measuring angles in a right triangle.

Math students who have a hard time with the speed of their problem solving will benefit from this video. Sal tackles increasingly complicated geometry and algebra problems in a way that shows them how to find the correct answer - quickly.

The instructor continues to build ratio problem-solving skills algebraically. The two examples are very involved but are thoroughly explained using algebraic steps.

Fifth graders estimate the prices of items to be bought for back to school. They use catalogs and/or advertisements to research the cost of each of the items. They use problem solving strategies and a spreadsheet template to determine...

Pairs of geometry whizzes work together to determine which of three differently shaped cylinders will have the greatest volume. Pupils cut out the three rectangles embedded in the plan, and tape them together to form a cylinder. From...