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Identify Similarities to Get Started in Math Problem Solving

Tags

Mathematics ^21st Century Skills High School & Up Strategy

Skills

Flexible Thinking Abstract Reasoning

Identify Similarities to Get Started in Math Problem Solving

If your student feels overwhelmed or has difficulty starting novel problems

Instruction And Practice

  1. Objective: Students will identify similarities and differences between previously solved problems when they struggle to solve a new, challenging problem.
  2. Model and Practice: a) When a student gets stuck on a problem, encourage them to take a step back and identify a similar problem they have solved in the past. b) Have them create two columns on a piece of paper, one for similarities and one for differences. c) Work with your student to write down all the similarities in the problem including the number of variables, types of variables, target answer, formulas, etc. d) Now have them identify what is different in the current problem and help them see that these are the factors that will require them to modify their approach. Helping them focus on what is different can narrow down the problem and enable them to make key learning connections.

Why It Works (the Science Of Learning)!

Taking time to analyze similarities and differences might take more time, particularly if students are confident in their problem solving approach, but it can improve their deeper conceptual understanding. As students learn how to use this strategy and appreciate its effectiveness, they will grow to rely on it when they get stuck in problem solving. This strategy might be best for students who are strong in a topic but really trying to go deeper and advance their thinking.