Steps in Problem Solving
What is step 1 in problem solving?
Identify what the problem is
A problem that you can solve alone, quickly, and easily
Very Small Problem
You have $2 at the school store. You want a drink and a snack, but they cost more than $2 together. What is the problem?
I want both the drink and the snack, but I don't have enough money.
What is Step 2 in Problem Solving?
Identify 3 ways to solve the problem
A problem that you can solve alone that might make you sad but doesn't cause too big of a reaction.
Small Problem
Your teacher is making you stay in for recess to complete a missing assignment. You are frustrated because you don't want to do this.
What is the Problem?
Your teacher is making you stay in from recess.
What is Step 3 in Problem Solving?
Think about what will happen after you make each choice, and how you will feel about it.
This involves more people, causes bigger reactions, and isn't easy to solve.
Medium Problem
You spent three days building a class project, and your sister messed it up.
Your sister messed up your project.
What is Step 4 in Problem Solving?
Choose the best choice.
A problem that takes a while to solve and requires help from other adults
Big Problem
Your mom will not let you go to a friend's house over the weekend because you did not do all of your schoolwork during the week. What is the Problem?
Can't go to my friend's house, because I did not do all my work.
A problem that is very difficult to solve and causes serious harm or damage.
You are working on an assignment in class, but you find it very difficult and become frustrated. What is the problem?
The assignment is very difficult.