A problem is a doubtful or difficult question a matter of inquiry, discussion, or thought a question

1
What is a 'Problem'?

• A problem is a doubtful or difficult question a
  matter of inquiry, discussion, or thought a
  question that exercises the mind (Oxford English
  Dictionary)
• A problem is a situation or task for which
• a. the person wants or needs to find a solution
• b. the person does not have a solution for the
  problem right at that moment
• c. the person makes an attempt to find the
  solution

2
Different Types of Problems

• Our ideas

3
BEING A MATHEMATICAL PROBLEM SOLVER
4
Rons Recycle Shop was started when Ron bought a
used paper-shredding machine. Business was good
so Ron bought a new shredding machine. The first
machine could shred a truckload of paper in 4
hours. The new machine could shred the same
truckload of paper in half the time. How long
will it take to shred a truckload of paper if Ron
runs both shredders at the same time?
5
Stuck?

• Are you overlooking anything? Do the two machines
  work simultaneously? Do they run just as
  fast when working together as when they work
  alone?
• Have you tried to predict or guess about how much
  time you think it should take the two machines?
  For example, will it be closer to 1 hour or
  closer to 4 hours? Why? Checking a guess can
  sometimes lead to a new insight into the problem.
• Did you try drawing a picture to help you solve
  the problem?
• Perhaps you could use something that you could
  move or change. For example, you might draw a
  rectangle or line segment to stand for the
  truckload of paper, or you might get some
  counters and make a collection that stands for
  the truckload.

6
Problem Solving Steps

• Understand the problem.
• Devise a plan for attacking the problem.
• Carry out the plan.
• Look back at the problem, the answer, and what
  you have done to get there.

7
The 3-Read Strategy

• A special strategy for reading math problems is
  called the 3-Read Strategy.
• It involves reading a problem several times in
  order to try to understand the problem clearly.
• It then involves devising a plan or strategy,
  carrying it out, and then checking your ideas.
• Work on the assigned activity in order to
  practise this strategy.

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The 3-Read Strategy

• The first read is designed so that you can
  understand the general idea of the problem.
• The second read is designed so that you can focus
  in on the separate facts and the actual question.
• The third read is designed so that you can
  recheck the problem to make sure you have not
  misunderstood anything.

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The 3-Read Strategy

• After understanding the problem, you need to
  think of possible ways to solve it. You need to
  think about the best strategy to use.
• Next, you must put into action the strategy or
  plan you have come up with. Record your thinking
  using pictures, symbols, and/or words.
• Lastly, you need to check over what you have done
  to make sure that you have answered the question
  and explained your thinking.

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Now practise the 3-Read strategy on some new
problems.
Examine the checklist for Problem Solving given
to you by the teacher. (Van de Walle, page 58)