Problem solving
I. Problem Solving and Mathematics Education
a. Problem Solving: Definition and Process
b. Problem Solving and Mathematics Education
c. Problem Solving and the Conceptual Framework of the K to 12
Mathematics Curriculum
d. Factors Affecting Problem Solving
e. Lessons from Research Studies on Implementing Problem Solving
II. Mathematical Investigation and Modelling
a. closed versus open ended problems
b. problem posing
c. mathematical investigation: process versus activity
d. mathematical modelling and the real-world
III. Problem Solving Heuristics
a. Search for a Pattern and formulate conjectures
b. Make a Diagram
c. Organize Data and Use Logic
d. Modify the Problem
e. Divide into Cases
f. Consider Extreme Cases
g. Look for Symmetry
h. Choose Effective Notation
i. Work Backward
j. Pursue Parity
k. Color and Prove
IV. Some Important Principles
a. Pigeonhole Principle
b. Invariant principle
c. Principle of Mathematical Induction
d. Argue by Contradiction
V. Reporting Results of a Mathematical Investigation
I. Foundations of Problem Solving in Mathematics Education
a. Problem Solving: Definition, Process, and Importance in Education
b. Problem Solving in the Conceptual Framework of the K to 12 Mathematics Curriculum
c. The Role of Problem Solving in Developing Mathematical Thinking
d. Factors Affecting Problem Solving (e.g., cognitive, affective, and environmental)
e. Lessons from Research Studies on Implementing Problem Solving
II. Solving Routine Problems
a. Characteristics of Routine Problems
b. Common Types of Routine Problems:
Number Problems
Age Problems
Geometry Problems
Motion Problems (Distance, Speed, and Time)
Work Problems
Investment Problems
Mixture Problems
c. Using Heuristics for Solving Routine Problems:
Make a Diagram
Organize Data and Use Logic
Work Backward
Modify the Problem
Search for a Pattern
III. Solving Non-Routine Problems
a. Characteristics and Importance of Non-Routine Problems in Mathematics Education
b. Non-Routine Problem-Solving Strategies and Heuristics:
Divide into Cases
Consider Extreme Cases
Look for Symmetry
Choose Effective Notation
Use Parity
Prove by Contradiction
Search for Patterns and Formulate Conjectures
c. Application of Non-Routine Problems:
Real-World Scenarios
Open-Ended Problems vs. Closed Problems
d. Developing Creative and Critical Thinking Skills in Non-Routine Problem Solving
IV. Mathematical Investigation and Modeling
a. Mathematical Investigation:
Process and Objectives of Mathematical Investigations
Differences Between Investigation as a Process and as an Activity
Exploring Patterns, Formulating Conjectures, and Testing Generalizations
b. Mathematical Modeling:
The Modeling Process (Define, Formulate, Solve, Interpret)
Connecting Mathematical Models to Real-Life Scenarios (e.g., environment, business, health)
Examples of Models and Their Limitations
V. Important Problem-Solving Principles
a. Pigeonhole Principle: Applications and Examples
b. Invariant Principle: Identifying Unchanging Quantities
c. Principle of Mathematical Induction: Using Patterns to Prove Generalizations
d. Proof by Contradiction: Strengthening Logical Reasoning
VI. Reporting and Communicating Results of Problem Solving and Investigation
a. Writing Mathematical Arguments and Proofs
b. Structuring and Writing Mathematical Investigation Reports
c. Presenting Results: Effective Communication of Mathematical Ideas
d. Reflecting on Problem-Solving Processes and Outcomes
