Problem.....SOLVED!

Problem solving is always a tricky element to teach to students.  I have taught third grade, first grade, and now second grade.  Since our district has implemented Singapore Math, I have absolutely loved teaching the 8 Steps of Model Drawing.  This method has helped my students tremendously when it comes to analyzing and correctly answering problems in math.  The year our district started Singapore Math, I was teaching third grade.  I wasn't too overwhelmed about teaching problem solving, but the following year I moved to first grade.  I was totally in shock about how to help the students keep the 8 steps organized and readable.  I created this diagram to help them fill out as they moved through the 8 steps of problem solving. To my surprise, the kiddos totally got it and were successful as they solved the problems!  I have continued to use this diagram for the students even this year as I teach second grade.  I am fortunate to be able to see just how effective this strategy has been, since I have several students this year from my first grade class last year.

 

I uploaded my diagram- they are mini....I use these daily and the students get one per day to fill out and glue into their math workbook to solve problems.  You could glue them into a notebook, or I have even used them as exit slips and collected them as they leave for recess or lunch.  One of my co-workers, Kolleen, created a scoring rubric to go along with the model drawing process.  I fancied it up a bit and attached it for free as well.  Take a look at a few of the slides I added to the page as well.  If you want to purchase the whole unit, you can visit my Teachers Pay Teachers page by clicking on my button to the right!  I hope you have as much success as I have teaching problem solving!

problem solving diagram page

scoring rubric

problem solving with problem

Have you ever used model drawing before?

-Gretchen