PROBLEM SOLVING

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  This is a one-semester course in the use of some 15-20 established problem-solving strategies.  Students will work in small groups learning to use each of these strategies, and when it is appropriate to use them.  Some strategies will be familiar from other math courses; but this course is designed to hone the use of these strategies and to provide an inventory of problem-solving techniques useful across the curriculum and in daily life.

PREREQUISITE:  One credit in Algebra I with a grade of “C” or better

TEXT:   Problem Solving Strategies.  2001, Johnson, Ken & Herr, Ted

BENCHMARKS:  The students will learn to use the following problem-solving techniques:

1. Draw a diagram
2. Systematic lists
3. Eliminate possibilities
4. Matrix logic
5. Look for a pattern
6. Guess and check
7. Sub-problems
8. Unit analysis
9. Solve an easier related problem
10. Physical representations
11. Work backwards
12. Venn diagrams
13. Algebra
14. Finite differences
15. Spatial organization

RESOURCES:

1.     Textbook

2.     Problem Sets

3.     Graphing Calculator

4.     Computer

ASSESSMENTS:

1.     Problem of the day (15%)

2.     Oral presentations (15%)

3.     Problem sets (50%)

4.     Quizzes (10%)

5.     Group participation (10%)

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