No Problem! Taking the Problem Out of Mathematical Problem Solving, Grades 4-6 - Softcover

Jean McCall; Joan Vydra; Dean Crawford Jr.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 159363112X ISBN 13: 9781593631123

Publisher: Prufrock Pr, 2006

Synopsis

The role of a mathematician does not involve adding columns of numbers. It is about using logic, looking for patterns, discovering rules, and organizing data. It does involve the use of computational skills, but more importantly, it calls for the use of imagination.

Young math students will become expert problem solvers with this program of eight problem-solving techniques that include:

• guess and check,
  
• make a table or an organized list,
  
• look for a pattern,
  
• act out or use manipulatives,
  
• use logic,
  
• simplify or work backward, and
  
• make a diagram or drawing.

Although there are other problem-solving strategies that mathematicians use, these are the strategies that will allow elementary-age students to solve mathematical problems most consistently. Each technique is introduced with a week of problems. The second half of the book presents problems arranged randomly, so students have to determine on their own which problem-solving technique they will use. Attractively illustrated and sprinkled with humor, these problems will keep students entertained throughout the entire year while they develop skills for solving math problems.

About this title

About the Authors

Jean McCall received her bachelor's degree from Eastern Illinois University and a master's degree from Governors State University. Jean taught kindergarten for 30 years in Lansing, IL, and has run the Learning Resource Center, directed the Accelerated Reader program, and taught K–5 computer classes for the past 5 years. Her hobbies include: reading, golf, crafts, and supporting the University of Illinois basketball team.

Joan Vydra is coauthor of No Problem!: Taking the Problem Out of Mathematical Problem Solving andPrimarily Creativity.

Joan Vydra is coauthor of No Problem!: Taking the Problem Out of Mathematical Problem Solving and Primarily Creativity.

Edition details

• Publisher: Prufrock Pr
• Publication date: 2006
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 159363112X
• ISBN 13: 9781593631123
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 96