Problem solving Essay

Problem solving refers to the process of tackling a worry to study and sack up it. In mathematics conundrum solving makes use of mathematical processes which enable pupils to develop revolutionary insights, and sometimes new procedures. It involves exploration, discovery and analysis. Problem solving begins with a task which the pupils understand and are impulsive to engage in, but for which they engender no immediate solution. It is associated with developing and learning ways to tackle and solve riddles. According to Broomes, Cumberbatch, James and Petty (1995) problem solving should no longer be viewed as an legal action in which pupils engage after they have acquired certain mathematical concepts and adroitnesss. Problem solving should be viewed some(prenominal) as means of acquiring new mathematical knowledge and as a process for applying what has been previously learned.George Polya has also propose a four-step process for problem solving. These four steps are under stand the problem, deck up a schema/plan for solving the problem, carry out the strategy/ plan and check for results or look back and check. These four steps are important in helping to do problem solving. The first stage of Polyas problem solving is understanding the problem. In order for the students to solve a problem in a mathematics classroom they must first understand the problem or understand what they are asked to find or do. The problem must be read carefully then analyzed. Polya taught teachers to ask students questions such asDo you understand all the wrangling used in stating the problem?What are you asked to do or show?Can you restate the problem in your own words?Can you think of a picture or diagram that might help you understand the problem?Is there enough information to enable you to nd a solution?Polyas Second prescript Devise a planPolya mentions that there are many reasonable ways to solve problems. The skill at choosing an appropriate strategy is best learn ed by solving many problems. You will nd choosing a strategy increasingly easy.A partial list of strategies is included Guess and check grimace for a patternMake an orderly list Draw a pictureEliminate possibilities shed light on a simpler problemUse symmetry Use a modelConsider special cases belong backwardsUse direct reasoning Use a formulaSolve an equation Be ingenious1Polyas Third Principle Carry out the planThis step is usually easier than devise the plan. In general, all you need is care and patience, given that you have the necessary skills. Persist with the plan that you have chosen. If it continues not to work discard it and choose another. Dont be misled, this is how mathematics is done, even by professionals.Polyas Fourth Principle Look backPolya mentions that much can be gained by fetching the time to reflect and look back at what you have done, what worked, and what didnt. Doing this will enable you to predict what strategy to use to solve future problems. So start ing on the next page, here is a summary, in the masters own words, on strategies for attacking problems in mathematics class.This is taken from the book, How To Solve It, by George Polya, 2nd ed., Princeton University Press, 1957,