Polya’s four-step problem-solving process is a clear way to approach any problem. In mathematics, it is important
for teachers to have the ability to assess what students know and where they might have confusion. With Polya’s
four-step process teachers can identify if students struggle to understand to problem-solving process: identify a plan, implement the plan, or look back at their work.
Before watching the video all the way through STOP and solve the problem yourself.
A. Identify your own problem-solving technique (there is no one correct answer to HOW you solve it.
Once the problem was explained all students were placed into smaller groups where they could create and carry out
a plan to solve the problem.
Video Reflection/Discussion: Answer one of the following with each student choosing a different question.
What did you learn about Problem Solving as a result of this segment with Tonya?
Were the strategies demonstrated in this segment the only ways to solve the problem?
Max demonstrated problem-solving by working with 13 ½ dollars. Which problem-solving strategy did
Max use? Explain
The two girls demonstrated problem-solving by working with 234 nickels. Which problem-solving
strategies did the girls use? Explain.
Does problem-solving increase or decrease the amount of time to solve a problem?
Does problem -solving allow for a student to truly demonstrate if they understand or have misconceptions
related to a subject?
If all the questions are answered you may now return to number one.
