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Solving the Puzzle: Strategies for Figuring Out Who’s Calling You

Have you ever received a phone call from an unknown number and wondered who it could be? We’ve all been there. Whether it’s a missed call, a prank call, or simply curiosity getting the best of us, figuring out who’s calling can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle. Luckily, there are strategies you can use to unravel the mystery and put your mind at ease. In this article, we’ll explore some effective methods for figuring out who’s calling you.

Utilize Reverse Phone Lookup Services

One of the most reliable ways to find out who’s calling you is by using reverse phone lookup services. These online tools allow you to enter the unknown number and retrieve information about its owner. Reverse phone lookup services gather data from various sources such as public records, social media platforms, and user-generated content.

When using a reverse phone lookup service, make sure to choose a reputable provider that offers accurate and up-to-date information. Some popular options include Whitepages, Truecaller, and Spokeo. Simply enter the unknown number into their search bar, and within seconds you may be provided with details such as the caller’s name, address, and even additional contact information.

Check Online Directories

Another useful strategy for identifying unknown callers is checking online directories. Many businesses have their contact information listed in directories like Yellow Pages or Yelp. By searching for the unknown number in these directories, you might discover that it belongs to a local business or individual.

Additionally, there are specialized directories designed specifically for phone numbers associated with telemarketers or scam calls. Websites like 800notes.com or whocallsme.com allow users to report suspicious numbers along with their experiences. Browsing through these websites may provide insights into whether others have received similar calls from that particular number.

Use Social Media Platforms

In today’s digital age, social media platforms can be a valuable tool for uncovering the identity of unknown callers. Start by entering the phone number into the search bar of popular platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn. If the caller has linked their phone number to their profile, you may be able to find their name or even photos.

Another effective method is using search engines to look up the phone number. Sometimes, individuals or businesses may have their contact information listed on websites or forums that are indexed by search engines. By performing a simple search with the unknown number enclosed in quotation marks, you might come across relevant results that reveal who’s behind the call.

Install Call Identification Apps

If you frequently receive calls from unknown numbers and would like a more proactive approach to identifying them, consider installing call identification apps on your smartphone. These apps use crowdsourced data to provide real-time information about incoming calls.

Apps like Truecaller and Hiya have extensive databases of known numbers and can automatically identify and block potential spam or scam calls. They also allow users to report unrecognized numbers, contributing to community-driven efforts in identifying suspicious callers.

In conclusion, figuring out who’s calling you doesn’t have to be an unsolvable mystery. By utilizing reverse phone lookup services, checking online directories, using social media platforms, and installing call identification apps, you can increase your chances of uncovering the identity behind those unknown calls. Remember to exercise caution when dealing with unfamiliar numbers and prioritize your safety and privacy at all times.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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problem solving strategies in the classroom

Teaching Problem-Solving Skills

Many instructors design opportunities for students to solve “problems”. But are their students solving true problems or merely participating in practice exercises? The former stresses critical thinking and decision­ making skills whereas the latter requires only the application of previously learned procedures.

Problem solving is often broadly defined as "the ability to understand the environment, identify complex problems, review related information to develop, evaluate strategies and implement solutions to build the desired outcome" (Fissore, C. et al, 2021). True problem solving is the process of applying a method – not known in advance – to a problem that is subject to a specific set of conditions and that the problem solver has not seen before, in order to obtain a satisfactory solution.

Below you will find some basic principles for teaching problem solving and one model to implement in your classroom teaching.

Principles for teaching problem solving

  • Model a useful problem-solving method . Problem solving can be difficult and sometimes tedious. Show students how to be patient and persistent, and how to follow a structured method, such as Woods’ model described below. Articulate your method as you use it so students see the connections.
  • Teach within a specific context . Teach problem-solving skills in the context in which they will be used by students (e.g., mole fraction calculations in a chemistry course). Use real-life problems in explanations, examples, and exams. Do not teach problem solving as an independent, abstract skill.
  • Help students understand the problem . In order to solve problems, students need to define the end goal. This step is crucial to successful learning of problem-solving skills. If you succeed at helping students answer the questions “what?” and “why?”, finding the answer to “how?” will be easier.
  • Take enough time . When planning a lecture/tutorial, budget enough time for: understanding the problem and defining the goal (both individually and as a class); dealing with questions from you and your students; making, finding, and fixing mistakes; and solving entire problems in a single session.
  • Ask questions and make suggestions . Ask students to predict “what would happen if …” or explain why something happened. This will help them to develop analytical and deductive thinking skills. Also, ask questions and make suggestions about strategies to encourage students to reflect on the problem-solving strategies that they use.
  • Link errors to misconceptions . Use errors as evidence of misconceptions, not carelessness or random guessing. Make an effort to isolate the misconception and correct it, then teach students to do this by themselves. We can all learn from mistakes.

Woods’ problem-solving model

Define the problem.

  • The system . Have students identify the system under study (e.g., a metal bridge subject to certain forces) by interpreting the information provided in the problem statement. Drawing a diagram is a great way to do this.
  • Known(s) and concepts . List what is known about the problem, and identify the knowledge needed to understand (and eventually) solve it.
  • Unknown(s) . Once you have a list of knowns, identifying the unknown(s) becomes simpler. One unknown is generally the answer to the problem, but there may be other unknowns. Be sure that students understand what they are expected to find.
  • Units and symbols . One key aspect in problem solving is teaching students how to select, interpret, and use units and symbols. Emphasize the use of units whenever applicable. Develop a habit of using appropriate units and symbols yourself at all times.
  • Constraints . All problems have some stated or implied constraints. Teach students to look for the words "only", "must", "neglect", or "assume" to help identify the constraints.
  • Criteria for success . Help students consider, from the beginning, what a logical type of answer would be. What characteristics will it possess? For example, a quantitative problem will require an answer in some form of numerical units (e.g., $/kg product, square cm, etc.) while an optimization problem requires an answer in the form of either a numerical maximum or minimum.

Think about it

  • “Let it simmer”.  Use this stage to ponder the problem. Ideally, students will develop a mental image of the problem at hand during this stage.
  • Identify specific pieces of knowledge . Students need to determine by themselves the required background knowledge from illustrations, examples and problems covered in the course.
  • Collect information . Encourage students to collect pertinent information such as conversion factors, constants, and tables needed to solve the problem.

Plan a solution

  • Consider possible strategies . Often, the type of solution will be determined by the type of problem. Some common problem-solving strategies are: compute; simplify; use an equation; make a model, diagram, table, or chart; or work backwards.
  • Choose the best strategy . Help students to choose the best strategy by reminding them again what they are required to find or calculate.

Carry out the plan

  • Be patient . Most problems are not solved quickly or on the first attempt. In other cases, executing the solution may be the easiest step.
  • Be persistent . If a plan does not work immediately, do not let students get discouraged. Encourage them to try a different strategy and keep trying.

Encourage students to reflect. Once a solution has been reached, students should ask themselves the following questions:

  • Does the answer make sense?
  • Does it fit with the criteria established in step 1?
  • Did I answer the question(s)?
  • What did I learn by doing this?
  • Could I have done the problem another way?

If you would like support applying these tips to your own teaching, CTE staff members are here to help.  View the  CTE Support  page to find the most relevant staff member to contact. 

  • Fissore, C., Marchisio, M., Roman, F., & Sacchet, M. (2021). Development of problem solving skills with Maple in higher education. In: Corless, R.M., Gerhard, J., Kotsireas, I.S. (eds) Maple in Mathematics Education and Research. MC 2020. Communications in Computer and Information Science, vol 1414. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-81698-8_15
  • Foshay, R., & Kirkley, J. (1998). Principles for Teaching Problem Solving. TRO Learning Inc., Edina MN.  (PDF) Principles for Teaching Problem Solving (researchgate.net)
  • Hayes, J.R. (1989). The Complete Problem Solver. 2nd Edition. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
  • Woods, D.R., Wright, J.D., Hoffman, T.W., Swartman, R.K., Doig, I.D. (1975). Teaching Problem solving Skills.
  • Engineering Education. Vol 1, No. 1. p. 238. Washington, DC: The American Society for Engineering Education.

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Kodable

Developing Problem-Solving Skills for Kids | Strategies & Tips

problem solving strategies in the classroom

We've made teaching problem-solving skills for kids a whole lot easier! Keep reading and comment below with any other tips you have for your classroom!

Problem-Solving Skills for Kids: The Real Deal

Picture this: You've carefully created an assignment for your class. The step-by-step instructions are crystal clear. During class time, you walk through all the directions, and the response is awesome. Your students are ready! It's finally time for them to start working individually and then... 8 hands shoot up with questions. You hear one student mumble in the distance, "Wait, I don't get this" followed by the dreaded, "What are we supposed to be doing again?"

When I was a new computer science teacher, I would have this exact situation happen. As a result, I would end up scrambling to help each individual student with their problems until half the class period was eaten up. I assumed that in order for my students to learn best, I needed to be there to help answer questions immediately so they could move forward and complete the assignment.

Here's what I wish I had known when I started teaching coding to elementary students - the process of grappling with an assignment's content can be more important than completing the assignment's product. That said, not every student knows how to grapple, or struggle, in order to get to the "aha!" moment and solve a problem independently. The good news is, the ability to creatively solve problems is not a fixed skill. It can be learned by students, nurtured by teachers, and practiced by everyone!

Your students are absolutely capable of navigating and solving problems on their own. Here are some strategies, tips, and resources that can help:

Problem-Solving Skills for Kids: Student Strategies

These are strategies your students can use during independent work time to become creative problem solvers.

1. Go Step-By-Step Through The Problem-Solving Sequence 

Post problem-solving anchor charts and references on your classroom wall or pin them to your Google Classroom - anything to make them accessible to students. When they ask for help, invite them to reference the charts first.

Problem-solving skills for kids made easy using the problem solving sequence.

2. Revisit Past Problems

If a student gets stuck, they should ask themself, "Have I ever seen a problem like this before? If so, how did I solve it?" Chances are, your students have tackled something similar already and can recycle the same strategies they used before to solve the problem this time around.

3. Document What Doesn’t Work

Sometimes finding the answer to a problem requires the process of elimination. Have your students attempt to solve a problem at least two different ways before reaching out to you for help. Even better, encourage them write down their "Not-The-Answers" so you can see their thought process when you do step in to support. Cool thing is, you likely won't need to! By attempting to solve a problem in multiple different ways, students will often come across the answer on their own.

4. "3 Before Me"

Let's say your students have gone through the Problem Solving Process, revisited past problems, and documented what doesn't work. Now, they know it's time to ask someone for help. Great! But before you jump into save the day, practice "3 Before Me". This means students need to ask 3 other classmates their question before asking the teacher. By doing this, students practice helpful 21st century skills like collaboration and communication, and can usually find the info they're looking for on the way.

Problem-Solving Skills for Kids: Teacher Tips

These are tips that you, the teacher, can use to support students in developing creative problem-solving skills for kids.

1. Ask Open Ended Questions

When a student asks for help, it can be tempting to give them the answer they're looking for so you can both move on. But what this actually does is prevent the student from developing the skills needed to solve the problem on their own. Instead of giving answers, try using open-ended questions and prompts. Here are some examples:

problem solving strategies in the classroom

2. Encourage Grappling

Grappling  is everything a student might do when faced with a problem that does not have a clear solution. As explained in this article from Edutopia , this doesn't just mean perseverance! Grappling is more than that - it includes critical thinking, asking questions, observing evidence, asking more questions, forming hypotheses, and constructing a deep understanding of an issue.

problem solving strategies in the classroom

There are lots of ways to provide opportunities for grappling. Anything that includes the Engineering Design Process is a good one! Examples include:

  • Engineering or Art Projects
  • Design-thinking challenges
  • Computer science projects
  • Science experiments

3. Emphasize Process Over Product

For elementary students, reflecting on the process of solving a problem helps them develop a growth mindset . Getting an answer "wrong" doesn't need to be a bad thing! What matters most are the steps they took to get there and how they might change their approach next time. As a teacher, you can support students in learning this reflection process.

problem solving strategies in the classroom

4. Model The Strategies Yourself! 

As creative problem-solving skills for kids are being learned, there will likely be moments where they are frustrated or unsure. Here are some easy ways you can model what creative problem-solving looks and sounds like.

  • Ask clarifying questions if you don't understand something
  • Admit when don't know the correct answer
  • Talk through multiple possible outcomes for different situations 
  • Verbalize how you’re feeling when you find a problem

Practicing these strategies with your students will help create a learning environment where grappling, failing, and growing is celebrated!

Problem-Solving Skill for Kids

Did we miss any of your favorites? Comment and share them below!

Looking to add creative problem solving to your class?

Learn more about Kodable's free educator plan or create your free account today to get your students coding!

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Osiris Educational

5 Ways to Encourage Problem-Solving in your Classroom

A blog from osiris educational.

Problem Solving blog

  • Osiris Admin
  • August 25, 2021

On average a teacher spends 86% of the time talking during a lesson. We are not giving our students the chance or the time to identify, solve and make their own mistakes.

How can we ensure they are learning the skills they need most without this vital part of the process?

Problem-solving skills are a necessary part of life and we as educators need to make sure students are prepped and ready to take on any issues they may be faced with.

The ability to identify, analyse and work out a solution is a valuable skill that is not only useful in the classroom, but also outside of school time. Implementing such practices into your classroom plan will help improve cognitive and social development. Once equipped with the tools they need to address and solve problems, students begin to take more control of their learning experience.

Here are 5 ways you can support problem-solving in your classroom:

1. Problem Solve as a Group

Have your students think aloud in a group setting. This allows for critical analysis and the chance to bounce solutions off each other. Introduce a two-column system whereby, the first column shows their idea to solve the issue and the second is the reasoning behind the idea. This helps students think about their own problem-solving skills and promotes cooperation whilst creating a solution.

2. Explain and Encourage

Explain the problem and encourage your students to think about why the task is important. Why is the way they came to a solution more important than the solution itself? Explain what skills they are gaining, why those skills will help and how a step-by-step process is better than a quick answer.

3. Time and Patience

Our basic nature means we want answers quick and fast without doing the work. Your students will want to race to the finish line with the quickest thought. We must show them that time and patience improve problem-solving and provides us with a clearer answer. Reminding your students that it is not a competition and not a race to finish first is essential.

4. Ask Questions and Reflect

Get your classroom thinking. Ask questions throughout the problem-solving task. Give them a chance to reflect. Once they have come to a solution, ask your students these questions:

  • Why did you choose that method?
  • Does this solve your problem the most efficient way?
  • What did you learn by solving this problem?
  • Could you have done this a different way?

5. Let them Learn

The hardest part. Hands off, let them work. As educators, we are eager to help, give answers and make sure our students are doing it the right way. To allow for success in problem-solving, we must allow them to make mistakes and work it out for themselves. Upon reflection, of course, make suggestions. Show them how you would do it, but these skills must be developed independently. After all, they won’t have you to guide them forever!

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Teaching problem solving

Strategies for teaching problem solving apply across disciplines and instructional contexts. First, introduce the problem and explain how people in your discipline generally make sense of the given information. Then, explain how to apply these approaches to solve the problem.

Introducing the problem

Explaining how people in your discipline understand and interpret these types of problems can help students develop the skills they need to understand the problem (and find a solution). After introducing how you would go about solving a problem, you could then ask students to:

  • frame the problem in their own words
  • define key terms and concepts
  • determine statements that accurately represent the givens of a problem
  • identify analogous problems
  • determine what information is needed to solve the problem

Working on solutions

In the solution phase, one develops and then implements a coherent plan for solving the problem. As you help students with this phase, you might ask them to:

  • identify the general model or procedure they have in mind for solving the problem
  • set sub-goals for solving the problem
  • identify necessary operations and steps
  • draw conclusions
  • carry out necessary operations

You can help students tackle a problem effectively by asking them to:

  • systematically explain each step and its rationale
  • explain how they would approach solving the problem
  • help you solve the problem by posing questions at key points in the process
  • work together in small groups (3 to 5 students) to solve the problem and then have the solution presented to the rest of the class (either by you or by a student in the group)

In all cases, the more you get the students to articulate their own understandings of the problem and potential solutions, the more you can help them develop their expertise in approaching problems in your discipline.

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Teaching problem solving.

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Tips and Techniques

Expert vs. novice problem solvers, communicate.

  • Have students  identify specific problems, difficulties, or confusions . Don’t waste time working through problems that students already understand.
  • If students are unable to articulate their concerns, determine where they are having trouble by  asking them to identify the specific concepts or principles associated with the problem.
  • In a one-on-one tutoring session, ask the student to  work his/her problem out loud . This slows down the thinking process, making it more accurate and allowing you to access understanding.
  • When working with larger groups you can ask students to provide a written “two-column solution.” Have students write up their solution to a problem by putting all their calculations in one column and all of their reasoning (in complete sentences) in the other column. This helps them to think critically about their own problem solving and helps you to more easily identify where they may be having problems. Two-Column Solution (Math) Two-Column Solution (Physics)

Encourage Independence

  • Model the problem solving process rather than just giving students the answer. As you work through the problem, consider how a novice might struggle with the concepts and make your thinking clear
  • Have students work through problems on their own. Ask directing questions or give helpful suggestions, but  provide only minimal assistance and only when needed to overcome obstacles.
  • Don’t fear  group work ! Students can frequently help each other, and talking about a problem helps them think more critically about the steps needed to solve the problem. Additionally, group work helps students realize that problems often have multiple solution strategies, some that might be more effective than others

Be sensitive

  • Frequently, when working problems, students are unsure of themselves. This lack of confidence may hamper their learning. It is important to recognize this when students come to us for help, and to give each student some feeling of mastery. Do this by providing  positive reinforcement to let students know when they have mastered a new concept or skill.

Encourage Thoroughness and Patience

  • Try to communicate that  the process is more important than the answer so that the student learns that it is OK to not have an instant solution. This is learned through your acceptance of his/her pace of doing things, through your refusal to let anxiety pressure you into giving the right answer, and through your example of problem solving through a step-by step process.

Experts (teachers) in a particular field are often so fluent in solving problems from that field that they can find it difficult to articulate the problem solving principles and strategies they use to novices (students) in their field because these principles and strategies are second nature to the expert. To teach students problem solving skills,  a teacher should be aware of principles and strategies of good problem solving in his or her discipline .

The mathematician George Polya captured the problem solving principles and strategies he used in his discipline in the book  How to Solve It: A New Aspect of Mathematical Method (Princeton University Press, 1957). The book includes  a summary of Polya’s problem solving heuristic as well as advice on the teaching of problem solving.

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Problem Solving in the Classroom

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The definition of a problem is   an undesirable condition, situation, or difficult question that needs to be answered . Some problems are common, with known solutions and answers, and are easily resolved. At other times the answer can only be found through problem solving techniques involving debate, discussion, testing and research. Effective problem-solving is the ability to identify and solve problems through the systematic application and use of appropriate skills.

Problems are a fact of life, something we all encounter from time to time. Problems may be small, sometimes they are large and at times the problem is a matter of life and death and at other times just a matter of choices. As teachers, we are well placed to support and encourage pupils to develop the necessary skills needed to tackle problems and the undesirable conditions and situations they may encounter both in and outside the school environment.

In problem-solving we consider what we know about a given problem or situation and determine the things we do not know about it – with a satisfactory solution, hopefully, lying somewhere in the void between the two. Problem solving can easy when you know how to approach it effectively.

The process of problem-solving in the classroom involves four basic stages:

Problem identification

Information gathering and the acquisition of new knowledge

Debate and discussion

Decision making

In life and the wider world, problem solving, by and large, is nearly always a collaborative process involving questioning, deep thinking, hypothesising, gathering of facts and information, and by challenging and testing predictions, viewpoints and opinions. But before a solution can be found, the problem must be understood. This may sound rather obvious but requires careful thought. Students must understand the problem; it must be adequately communicated by the teacher.

In addition, problem solving involves both analytical and creative skills with the following set seen as key to achieving a satisfactory outcome:

Analytical ability

Lateral thinking

Logical reasoning

To some problems, there is only one suitable solution, to others there may be several. Students should be encouraged to express their views about the problem even when others do not agree and have an opposing view. The experience students gain from debate and discussion aids the learning process and is invaluable to both their successes and their failures.

Finally, problem solving can also be considered a valuable learning opportunity. It allows students to see things differently and learn the importance of structure and organisation, the benefit of questioning and debate, and to do things in a different way. And, that while quick fixes may suffice, better, more effective solutions may exist.

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Key Tips On Problem Solving Method Of Teaching

problem solving strategies in the classroom

Problem-solving skills are necessary for all strata of life, and none can be better than classroom problem-solving activities. It can be an excellent way to introduce students to problem-solving skills, get them prepped and ready to solve real problems in real-life settings.  

The ability to critically analyze a problem, map out all its elements and then prepare a solution that works is one of the most valuable skills; one must acquire in life. Educating your students about problem-solving techniques from an early age can be facilitated with in-class problem-solving activities. Such efforts encourage cognitive and social development and equip students with the tools they will need to tackle and resolve their lives.  

So, what is  a  problem-solving method of teaching ?

Problem Solving  is the act of defining a problem; determining the cause of the problem; identifying, prioritizing and selecting alternatives for a solution; and implementing a solution. In a problem-solving method, children learn by working on problems. This skill enables the students to learn new knowledge by facing the problems to be solved. It is expected of them to observe, understand, analyze, interpret, find solutions, and perform applications that lead to a holistic understanding of the concept. This method develops scientific process skills. This method helps in developing a brainstorming approach to learning concepts. 

In simple words, problem-solving is an ongoing activity in which we take what we know to discover what we do not know. It involves overcoming obstacles by generating hypotheses, testing those predictions, and arriving at satisfactory solutions. 

The problem-solving method involves three basic functions

  • Seeking information
  • Generating new knowledge 
  • Making decisions 

This post will include key strategies to help you inculcate problem-solving skills in your students. 

First and foremostly, follow the 5-step model of problem-solving presented by Wood

Woods' problem-solving model

Identify the problem .

Allow your students to identify the system under study by interpreting the information provided in the problem statement. Then, prepare a list of what is known about the problem, and identify the knowledge needed to understand (and eventually) solve it. Once you have a list of known problems, identifying the unknown(s) becomes simpler. The unknown one is usually the answer to the problem; however, there may be other unknowns. Make sure that your students have a clear understanding of what they are expected to find. 

While teaching problem solving, it is very important to have students know how to select, interpret, and use units and symbols. Emphasize the use of units and symbols whenever appropriate. Develop a habit of using appropriate units and symbols yourself at all times. Teach your students to look for the words only and neglect or assume to help identify the constraints. 

Furthermore, help students consider from the beginning what a logical type of answer would be. What characteristics will it possess?  

Think about it

Use the next stage to ponder the identified problem. Ideally, students will develop an imaginary image of the problem at hand during this stage. They need to determine the required background knowledge from illustrations, examples and problems covered in the course and collect pertinent information such as conversion factors, constants, and tables needed to solve the problem. 

Plan a solution

Often, the type of problem will determine the type of solution. Some common problem-solving strategies are: compute; simplify; use an equation; make a model, diagram, table, or chart; or work backwards. 

Help your students choose the best strategy by reminding them again what they must find or calculate. 

Carry out the plan

Now that the major part of problem-solving has been done start executing the solution. There are possibilities that a plan may not work immediately, do not let students get discouraged. Encourage them to try a different strategy and keep trying. 

Encourage students to reflect. Once a solution has been reached, students should ask themselves the following questions: 

  •  Does the answer make sense? 
  •  Does it fit with the criteria established in step 1? 
  •  Did I answer the question(s)? 
  •  What did I learn by doing this? 
  •  Could I have done the problem another way?  

Other tips include

Ask open-ended questions.

When a student seeks help, you might be willing to give them the answer they are looking for so you can both move on. But what is recommend is that instead of giving answers promptly, try using open-ended questions and prompts. For example: ask What do you think will happen if..? Why do you think so? What would you do if you get into such situations? Etc. 

Emphasize Process Over Product

For elementary students, reflecting on the process of solving a problem helps them develop a growth mindset. Getting an 'incorrect' response does not have to be a bad thing! What matters most is what they have done to achieve it and how they might change their approach next time. As a teacher, you can help students learn the process of reflection. 

Model The Strategies

As children learn creative problem-solving techniques, there will probably be times when they will be frustrated or uncertain. Here are just a few simple ways to model what creative problem-solving looks like and sounds like. 

  • Ask questions in case you don't understand anything.
  • Admit to not knowing the right answer.
  • Discuss the many possible outcomes of different situations. 
  • Verbalize what you feel when you come across a problem.
  • Practising these strategies with your students will help create an environment where struggle, failure and growth are celebrated!

Encourage Grappling

Grappling is not confined to perseverance! This includes critical thinking, asking questions, observing evidence, asking more questions, formulating hypotheses and building a deep understanding of a problem. 

There are numerous ways to provide opportunities for students to struggle. All that includes the engineering design process is right! Examples include: 

  • Engineering or creative projects
  • Design-thinking challenges
  • Informatics projects
  • Science experiments

Make problem resolution relevant to the lives of your students

Limiting problem solving to class is a bad idea. This will affect students later in life because problem-solving is an essential part of human life, and we have had a chance to look at it from a mathematical perspective. Such problems are relevant to us, and they are not things that we are supposed to remember or learn but to put into practice in real life. These are things from which we can take very significant life lessons and apply them later in life. 

What's your strategy? How do you teach Problem-Solving to your students? Do let us know in the comments. 

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  2. Math Problem Solving Steps Mini-poster and Problem Solving Strategies

    problem solving strategies in the classroom

  3. Anchor chart to help students with problem solving

    problem solving strategies in the classroom

  4. Developing Problem-Solving Skills for Kids

    problem solving strategies in the classroom

  5. Problem Solving in the Classroom

    problem solving strategies in the classroom

  6. The Wheel of Choice is a tool for students to develop independent

    problem solving strategies in the classroom

VIDEO

  1. Problem-Solving With My Elementary Students

  2. problem solving activity 🤔🤔

  3. Problem Solving Advice for Teachers by @TeacherToolkit

  4. problem Solving Skills

  5. Problem-Solving With Students

  6. Problem Solving Strategies

COMMENTS

  1. Unlocking the Secrets of Math Homework: Expert Techniques to Solve Any Problem

    Math homework can sometimes feel like an insurmountable challenge. From complex equations to confusing word problems, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. However, with the right techniques and strategies, you can conquer any math problem that com...

  2. Incorporating Fun into Learning: How Math Games Transform the Classroom

    Mathematics is a subject that many students find challenging and intimidating. The thought of numbers, equations, and problem-solving can be overwhelming, leading to disengagement and lack of interest.

  3. Solving the Puzzle: Strategies for Figuring Out Who’s Calling You

    Have you ever received a phone call from an unknown number and wondered who it could be? We’ve all been there. Whether it’s a missed call, a prank call, or simply curiosity getting the best of us, figuring out who’s calling can sometimes fe...

  4. Teaching Problem-Solving Skills

    Principles for teaching problem solving · Model a useful problem-solving method. Problem solving can be difficult and sometimes tedious. · Teach within a specific

  5. 6 Strategies To Instill Problem-Solving Skills In Students

    6 Practical Ways To Foster Critical Thinking In Students · 1. Promote Skill Building Through Self-Directed Learning · 2. Encourage Brainstorming

  6. Developing Problem-Solving Skills for Kids

    4. Model The Strategies Yourself! · Ask clarifying questions if you don't understand something · Admit when don't know the correct answer · Talk

  7. Problem Solving

    Using problem solving as a teaching strategy can engage students in developing deep understanding of important concepts and principles, developing skills

  8. 5 Ways to Encourage Problem-Solving in your Classroom

    5 Ways to Encourage Problem-Solving in your Classroom · 1. Problem Solve as a Group · 2. Explain and Encourage · 3. Time and Patience · 4. Ask

  9. Teaching problem solving

    Teaching problem solving ; frame the problem in their own words; define key terms and concepts; determine statements that accurately represent the givens of a

  10. Teaching Problem Solving

    Model the problem solving process rather than just giving students the answer. As you work through the problem, consider how a novice might struggle with the

  11. Instructional Strategies for Teaching Problem Solving

    Instructional strategies used in teaching problem-solving skills include providing sufficient context, learning to think actively

  12. Problem Solving in the Classroom

    Problem Solving in the Classroom · Problem identification · Information gathering and the acquisition of new knowledge · Debate and discussion · Decision making.

  13. 9 problem-solving examples for students (plus benefits)

    9 problem-solving examples for students · 1. Brainstorming · 2. Thought simulation · 3. Role-play · 4. Strategy card analysis · 5. Venn Diagrams · 6.

  14. Key Tips On Problem Solving Method Of Teaching

    Model The Strategies · Ask questions in case you don't understand anything. · Admit to not knowing the right answer. · Discuss the many possible