Maths Problem Solving

Problem Solving is probably the one area in Maths that is challenging for many students. 

Using a strategy to break down the problem can be helpful to students.  In our school, we use the 'RUDE' Approach to problem solving, which is outlined in the images below.

I have also made smaller desk topper versions for the children as a reference point.  It includes some mathematical language that often appears in problems, as well as a multiplication grid.

Some schools follow the 'CUBES' Approach. Display posters and a desk topper for this is also available, just click on each picture to be redirected to download.

I like to encourage the children to make a note of any useful mathematical language that will help them with problem solving in the future.  I usually put it inside their Maths book.  Click on the image to download it for free.

App Alert: Borrow Box

This app allows you to download books from your library for free from your home!

I only came across this app lately and it is suitable for students and teachers alike.  I have used it during the summer to download and read some books.

What you need:

A library card Device to download the app

What I like about it:

-It is free! (new books can be expensive) -Saves trips to the library (handy for busy parents) -Option to download 5 books and 5 audio books at a time (I like the audio option for some children who may be reluctant readers or just like to listen to a story sometimes).
-You can select a filter for 'Children' or search a specific title.

It is definitely one I will be recommending to some parents in September who want to encourage their children to read more.

The A to Z Project

A couple of years I decided to do an A to Z project with my class. Each week they completed a project based on a letter of the alphabet. Each student presented their project on Friday for the class. Sometimes I chose the topic for the children. For example, we were learning about Ireland, so the children researched a county for the letter C.

They also did some group projects. When learning about Europe, the children researched Germany and France in groups. It helped to improve their teamwork skills and organisational skills as they needed to make sure they had focused on different areas such as food, sport, landmarks.

We also did some practical hands on projects such as teepees for the letter T and bridges for B (click here to find out more about this project). I photographed the children's work and printed it for their scrapbooks where they had their A to Z projects stuck in. 

Project work proved very beneficial to the children as they they has the opportunity to learn a lot from each other, improve their presentation skills and organisational skills (as they have the week to complete the project). Also it gave them the opportunity to improve their ICT skills, giving them the choice to type their projects.