| | |

Using Problem Solving Mats in the Classroom

ByKimberlyjayne

What is a Problem Solving Mat?

A problem solving mat is a useful teaching resource that will guide your students through the 4 steps to problem solving. Each section of the problem solving mat matches a step in the process:

  • Understand the Problem: In the first quadrant student write out the problem and highlight or underline the important information.
  • Make a Plan: In the second quadrant students decide what strategy they are going to use to solve the problem.
  • Carry out the Plan: In quadrant three students carry out their plan to solve the problem. A handy hint reminds them to re-read the problem to keep them on track.
  • Check Your Answer: In quadrant four students are prompted to check their work by answer the question “Does my answer makes sense?” Encourage student to justify their response instead of just writing yes or no.

How Can You Use a Problem Solving Mat?

  • Print out a class set in A3 and laminate them for use during whole class problem solving maths questions. Students can write on them using highlighters or whiteboard markers.
  • Print out a black and white copy in A4 for students to complete problem solving maths practise and glue into their work books.
  • Use in small group teaching to extend high ability and gifted and talented students in any math concept.
  • Use as an assessment tool to assess students’ knowledge of how to problem solve in maths.

Why Teach Problem Solving?

Problem solving helps to develop logical and critical thinking skills. It is one of the proficiency strands in the Australian Curriculum. It is an interesting and enjoyable way to learn mathematics, and allows for enrichment and extension of gifted and talented and high ability students. For problem solving tasks, check out my Teachers Pay Teachers Store.

Get FREE Problem Solving Mats!

I have created 14 rainbow coloured Problem Solving Mats just for you! Get them free right here:

Similar Posts

lateral_thinking_gifted_and_talented_enrichment
|

Unlocking Creativity: Lateral Thinking Activities for Gifted and Talented Learners

ByKimberlyjayne

Do you find yourself pulling your hair out trying to think of ways to provide enrichment for your gifted and talented learners? Challenging gifted and talented students in a mainstream classroom can feel like a daunting task! I am going to show you how to can cater to your high ability students in the classroom…

The words "Twice Exceptional" and "2E" are displayed. A teenager is sitting at a table with head down.
|

Twice Exceptional: Gifted and Learning Disabled

ByKimberlyjayne

What is Twice Exceptional (2e)? Twice exceptional (2e) isn’t quite how is sounds. A twice exceptional learner is one whom not only has the potential for high achievement, but also has a learning disability of difficulty. These disabilities may include dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, auditory processing disorder, physical disabilities, autism spectrum, or other impairments such as…

divergent_thinking_gifted_and_talented
|

Promoting Divergent Thinking as an Enrichment Strategy for Gifted Learners

ByKimberlyjayne

Imagine sitting in a classroom day after day, bored, patiently waiting for your peers to learn a concept that you mastered straight away. Enduring the slow pace and lack of challenge daily, your needs remaining unmet. Imagine doing this for years. We know that up to half of gifted students underachieve in schools (Commonwealth, 2001). However…

How Can You Challenge Gifted and Talented Students in Your Classroom?
| | |

How Can You Challenge Gifted and Talented Students in Your Classroom?

ByKimberlyjayne

How do I differentiate my teaching for gifted students? What is the best way to support gifted students in my class? Do I need to challenge my gifted students? If you have ever asked yourself a question like this, you’re in the right place! This post shares ideas that help you to effectively help gifted…