BASIC MATHEMATICS

Problem and Problem Solving

The word "problem" may sound common to you.
However, it has a specific meaning in mathematics. A
problem is any task in which you are faced with a
situation whereby the path to a solution is not
obvious and immediate. You may need to integrate
some of your existing knowledge in order to overcome
obstacles to get the solution. ln other words, to solve a
problem is to (a) find a way where no way is known off-
hand, or (b) find a way out of difficulty, or (c) find a way
around an obstacle, or (d) attain a desired end, that is
not immediately attainable, by appropriate means. ln
relation to this, problem solving is the process of solving
a problem.
ROUTINE PROBLEMS
Generally, problems can be classified as routine
and noroutine problems. A routine problem is
one that merely requires you to apply some
known procedures, usually involving arithmetic
operations to get the solution. An example of a
routine problem is as follows:

'What is the area of a 100 meters by meters parking lot?'
NON-ROUTINE PROBLEMS
On the other hand, when you encounter an
unusual problem situation in which you do not
know of any standard procedure for solving it,
then you are facing a non-routine problem. In
such situations, you need to create a new
procedure to solve the problem. An example of
a non-routine problem is given below:

"Approximately how many hairs are there on your head?
POLYAS MODEL OF PROBLEM
SOLVING
Good problem solving encompasses four
phases, according to Polya (1957). He defined
the first phase as understanding the problem.
Without understanding the meaning students
will not be able to find a correct solution. Once
students understand the problem, they device a
plan. Polya suggested that the third phase is
carrying out the devised plan. Good problem
solvers then,look back at the solution to verify
its correctness.
FOUR POLYAS MODEL OF PROBLEM
SOLVING PHASES

Understand the problem.

Draw up the plan / devise a plan.

Try out / carry out the plan.

Monitor the outcome of the plan / look back.
UNDERSTAND THE PROBLEM
What are you asked to find out or show?

Can you draw a picture or diagram to help
you understand the problem?

Can you restate the problem in your own
words?

Can you work out some numerical examples
that would help make the problem more clear?
DEVISE A PLAN
A partial list of Problem Solving Strategies include:
Guess and check Solve a simpler problem
Make an organized list Experiment
Draw a picture or diagram Act it out
Look for a pattern Work backwards
Make a table Use deduction
Use a variable Change your point of view
CARRY OUT THE PLAN
Carrying out the plan is usually easier than devising the
plan

Be patient most problems are not solved quickly nor
on the first attempt

If a plan does not work immediately, be persistent

Do not let yourself get discouraged

If one strategy isnt working, try a different one
LOOK BACK
Does your answer make sense? Did you answer all of
the questions?

What did you learn by doing this?

Could you have done this problem another way
maybe even an easier way?
STRATEGY 4: SIMPLIFY THE PROBLEM
The strategy of simplifying is most often used with other
strategies. Writing a simpler problem is .one way of
simplifying the problem-solving process. Rewording the
problem, using smaller numbers, or using a more
familiar problem setting may lead to an understanding
of the solution strategy to be used. Many problems may
be divided into simpler problems to be combined to get
a solution. Some problems can be made simpler by
working backwards. sometimes a problem is too
complex to solve in o.ne step. when this happens, it is
often useful to simplify the problem by dividing it into
cases and solving each one separately.
PROBLEM;

How many squares are there in the 7 by 7 grid?
solution