Reardon Problem Solving Gifts
Teaching Problem Solving Strategies in the 5-12 Curriculum
Address any kind of math concept or problem with a series of problem-solving strategies. Over 12 days of different activities and increasing skills, learners practice different ways to solve problems, check their answers, and reflect...
Curated OER
Problem Solving - Adding Whole Numbers
In order to practice problem-solving skills, pupils work through a series of word problems. They each determine an answer and then share their thinking process with the class. This lesson demonstrates that there may be more than one way...
Curated OER
Word Problems Solved By S.M.S.
Learners solve word problems with a consumer math emphasis. This lesson plan also contains many strategies and questions learners can ask to solving problems. There is also a bibliography included for resources on problem solving.
EngageNY
Problem Solving Using Rates, Unit Rates, and Conversions
Find a way to work with rates. The 23rd part in a 29-part series presents work problems for the class to solve given work rates. Pupils compare rates to determine which is faster. Some problems require learners to convert the rates to...
Curated OER
Using Algebra to Explore Problem Space
Students apply their knowledge of math by rewriting word problems using equations. In this word problem instructional activity, students build upon previous knowledge as they set up the correct steps to solve word problems. This...
Baylor College
Living Things and Their Needs: The Math Link
Enrich your study of living things with these cross-curricular math activities. Following along with the story Tillena Lou's Day in the Sun, learners will practice addition and subtraction, learn how to measure volume and length, work on...
EngageNY
Solving Problems by Finding Equivalent Ratios
Combine total quantities and equivalent ratios in problem solving. The fifth lesson in a series of 29 presents problems that can be solved using equivalent ratios. Pupils use part-to-part ratios and either sums or differences of the...
Curated OER
Summer Machines Activity: How Can We Move This Box of Blocks?
Students discover there's more than one way to move a heavy load. In this problem solving lesson, students use observation and problem-solving skills as they experiment with simple machines in order to transport loads.
Curated OER
Problem Solving? Cereal
Young scholars use problem-solving approaches to investigate mathematical content. They formulate problems from situations within and outside mathematics content. They warm up with a survey done by the teacher. Everyone uses practice...
EngageNY
Solving Problems in Two Ways—Rates and Algebra
Build confidence by using multiple approaches to problem solving! This resource uses a visual and algebraic approach to solving application problems. A discussion is included about efficient approaches to different problems.
EngageNY
Word Problems Leading to Rational Equations
Show learners how to apply rational equations to the real world. Learners solve problems such as those involving averages and dilution. They write equations to model the situation and then solve them to answer the question — great...
Curated OER
"Andy Works for Charity"
Explore a real-word math problem with your class. Strengthen their problem-solving strategies by coming up with an answer to a money question. They work in groups to determine the answer. Also, they share with the class the various...
EngageNY
Solving Equations Involving Linear Transformations of the Coordinate Space
Explore methods for solving linear systems with your classes and introduce learners to using matrices as a viable method. Scholars are able to recognize situations where matrices are the efficient method of solving. Application questions...
Alabama Learning Exchange
Can You Solve the Mystery of the Variable?
Solving a murder is like isolating a variable. Using a video on a murder mystery, the narrator introduces the idea of solving a literal equation for one variable. After solving several equations, the class comes up with a set of...
Curated OER
Problem Solving of Patterns
Fifth graders use a software program to practice their problem solving skills. As a class, they identify patterns in their days at school and review problem solving patterns in math. They solve different problems and discover that the...
Curated OER
Problem Solving and the Sports Page
The use of box scores from baseball games is the foundation of this math lesson. Organize your class into groups of four, and give identical box scores from a baseball game that was just played. Have them create word problems from the...
Curated OER
Using Proportions to Solve Problems
Skittles and math? Pupils will work as a class to determine how many orange Skittles are in a large bag by using proportions. They will problem solve, estimate, and share their thinking. Then, they will each receive a small bag of...
Curated OER
Solve This
Students with learning disabilities practice their problem-solving skills. They discover the consequences of their actions and they chart their decisions. They use the internet to see how different situations play out based on different...
Curated OER
Math Sleuths
Help learners practice their math skills by utilizing the Internet to research a mathematical topic. Your math sleuths will investigate a science or social studies topic from their curriculum and construct a Math Hunt Grid. They create a...
Curated OER
Building a Paper Bridge: an Introduction To Problem Solving
Eighth graders explore problem solving strategies to build a paper bridge with a partner. As a class they discuss a variety of techniques to solve a simple problem, then in pairs construct the longest non-supported single span bridge...
Curated OER
Outdoor Activities/Problem Solving: Home Design
Students create with sticks and stones. For this early childhood lesson plan, students use their problem-solving skills to make houses out of items they find outdoors.
EngageNY
Word Problems
Use several skills to solve word problems leading to systems of equations. Scholars define variables and write equations to model situations described within word problems. Pupils solve the resulting system of linear equations using...
Curated OER
Number and Operation: All About Monday - Does it Pay?
Solve real-world financial math problems. High schoolers will work through a series of problems as they look at credit card interest, bill payment, and other real-world personal money matters.
EngageNY
Multi-Step Problems—All Operations
Harness the power of algebra to solve problems. Young mathematicians learn to work out multi-step problems by applying algebraic techniques, such as solving equations and proportions. They use tape diagrams to model the problem to finish...