Elementary Math

Problem SolvingPolya's 4 steps to Problem Solving Understand The ProblemDevise a PlanCarry out The PlanLook Back (reflect)Understand The ProblemWhat are you asked to find out or show?Can you restate the problem in your own words?Can you draw a picture or diagram to help you understand the problem? Devise a Plan-What problem solving strategies are you using? Guess and check/trial and error Draw a picture or a diagram Make a tableAct it out Make the problem simplerLook for a pattern Work backwardsMake an Organized list Carry out the PlanCarrying out the plan is usually easier than devising the planBe patient- most problems are not solved quickly nor on the first attempt If a plan does not work immediately, be persistentDo not let yourself get discouraged If one strategy does not work, try another Look Back (reflect)Does your answer make sense? Is it a reasonable one? Did you answer all the questions?Could you have solved the problem in a different Way? Maybe an easier way?What did you learn from this?