 Problem solving is a process.

 It requires critical thinking, ability to make decisions,

use the correct strategy to find the solution and check
the result.
It is a central part of learning math.
STRATEGIES IN PROBLEM SOLVING

 Working Backward
 Draw A Picture
 Writing Equation
 Venn Diagram
 Logical Reasoning
 Model for Problem Solving
1. Understand the problem.
2. Devise a plan or strategy for solving it.
3. Carry out the Strategy
4. Check the result.
IMPORTANCE OF PROBLEM
SOLVING
• Problem-solving skills let students apply what
they learn instead of just recalling information. It
is a valuable skill in a wide range of fields.
Knowing how to solve problems enables students
to think critically.
Benefits of Problem Solving
• It bases students’ mathematical development on their current knowledge;
• It is an interesting and enjoyable way to learn mathematics;
• It is a way to learn new mathematics with greater understanding;
• It produces positive attitudes towards mathematics;
• It makes the student a junior research mathematician;
• It teaches thinking, flexibility and creativity;
• It teaches general problem solving skills;
• It encourages cooperative skills;
• It is a useful way to practice mathematical skills learned by other means;
• It is similar in approach to the way that other subjects are taught in
primary school.
 Advantages and
Disadvantages of Problem
Solving
 ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES

• Learners are motivated high • Inappropriate use of algorithms.

level of understanding. • It takes too much time.
• Activates prior knowledge. • Evaluating the learning can be
• Direct instruction is reduced; difficult.
students are forced to take
responsibilities in their own
learning which often increase
motivation.
EQUATION:
1. X + (X + 4) = 28 Combine like terms

2X + 4 = 28
Transpose
2X = 28 – 4
2X = 24
Divide both sides
2 2
X = 12 Solve for X

ANSWER

X = 12
Elimination Method
A. 2x – y = 1
We have the same number of y’s in each equation
B. 3x + y = 9
5x = 10 We add the equation and the y/s
5 5 disappear

x=2
Divide both side by 5. Solve for x.

2x – y = 1
Substitute x=2 in equation A and solve for Y.
2(2) – y = 1
4–y=1
ANSWER :
-y=1–4
-1(- y = - 3)-1 X = 2, y = 3
y=3
Elimination Method
Substitute the value of y to the
1st equation
x + y = 10 x + y = 10
2x + y = 30 x + (-10) = 10
Transpose
-2(x + y = 10)-2 x – 10 = 10
2x + y = 30 x = 10 + 10
Solve for X
-2x – 2y = -20 Eliminate X = 20
2x + y = 30
- y = 10 Solve for y Answer
X = 20, Y = - 10
-1 -1
y = -10