Maths Problem Solving Strategies

Problem Solving Strategies

There are numerous approaches to solving math problems. 'Model Drawing' is the first one that we have introduced because we feel that it has the greatest impact in building children's confidence in dealing with math problems. Most students enjoy visual effects. Seeing abstract relationships, represented by concrete and colourful images, helps in understanding, leading to the solution of the problem. Our section on Model Drawing is by no means exhaustive but it will open a new doorway for the student who has been struggling with math problems.
Besides the Model-Drawing Approach there are several other strategies, which are necessary for the student to master, to achieve proficiency in math problem solving. In our next section, we introduce the important and most useful ones. These are:

1) Draw a Picture 2) Look for a Pattern 3) Guess and Check

4) Make a Systematic List 5) Logical Reasoning 6) Work Backwards

The student may also come across problems which may need the use of more than one strategy before a solution can be found.

OTHER PROBLEM-SOLVING STRATEGIES
Primary 3	Primary 4	Primary 5	Primary 6
Draw a Picture/Find a Pattern	Draw a Picture/Find a Pattern	Draw a Picture	Draw a Picture/Find a Pattern
Guess & Check	Guess & Check	Guess & Check	Guess & Check
Work Backwards	Work Backwards	Work Backwards	Work Backwards
Systematic Listing	Systematic Listing	Systematic Listing	Systematic Listing
Logical Reasoning	Logical Reasoning	Logical Reasoning	Logical Reasoning