Problem Talk - 3

two-step written maths problemsThis is a perfect introductory activity, particularly effective when children can work together on mini whiteboards.

As before, print out the file and cut each page into separate strips - each containing one written problem. Give each child a problem slip, and ask the pair to take it in turns to read the maths problem and discuss how it could be attacked.

Encourage the children to explain what mathematical functions they think they need to apply in order to solve the problem, and to decide on the order of those functions.

The 5 page pdf file contains a brief introduction and 20 slightly more complex and thought provoking multi-step problems, such as:

multi-step math problems

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littlemisssunshine's picture

 A Fantastic resource  - we

Submitted by littlemisssunshine on Sat, 02/11/2012 - 13:41.
 A Fantastic resource  - we are focusing on using more Mathematical Talk in school so this is great resource for me to try out, it will also work well with my more able children once they have finished their main activity.  Just a shame there are no answers!!!! 
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johdu's picture

Yes, I considered adding

Submitted by johdu on Wed, 02/15/2012 - 22:58.

Yes, I considered adding answers to these maths problems, but then thought that since the children are actively describing their strategies a discussion about that was more relevant than the actual answer... also, there is usually plenty of time while they are talking to figure out the expected answer. And that figuring is in itself quiet helpful since it gives us a clearer idea of what strategy we would use - and how applicable this might be to share with children.

Thanks so much for your comments and feedback. Always much appreciated.

John

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nicolavb's picture

 Thank you for this resource.

Submitted by nicolavb on Sat, 01/14/2012 - 10:27.
 Thank you for this resource.  My students really enjoy working together to solve problems, and I really enjoy giving their brains a quick 'jump start' activity such as this at the beginning of maths lessons, or during a 5 minute transition. As I am a teacher in Australia, it would be wonderful if any of your resources that use monetary amounts could be available using dollar signs - this would also work for any American teachers using the site also.  Thanks again for all your wonderful resources and teaching ideas.  Cheers, Nicola  
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Thank you for this timesaving

Submitted by Bader on Fri, 01/06/2012 - 12:50.
Thank you for this timesaving resource.  It is ideal for quick-fire starters or plenaries.
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