Students are gaining good problem solving strategy and fraction knowledge these weeks. I've compared the strategy for problem solving to the strategies used for any sports contest or special event. We're taking a step-by-step approach to problem solving with an emphasis on visualizing the problem, writing problem equations, completing the calculations on paper and checking our work, and writing an answer statement that directly responds to the question asked.
What's most important right now is motivating students focus and willingness to ask questions when they don't understand. Their visualization, use of models and precise calculation, perseverance, collaboration, and questioning will lead them to success at this point with the math curriculum.
