Since children learn differently than adults do, and do not have prior knowledge to draw meaning from, an important characteristic of a professional math teacher is to have the ability to create a classroom environment where students are encouraged to take risks and explore problems while learning problem solving strategies. According to the class textbook, A Problem Solving Approach to Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers, “If problems are approached in only one way, a mind-set may be formed.” (Billstein, R., Libeskind, S., & Lott, J., 2010) Teachers need to give students a tool box of strategies, such as, look for a pattern, examine a related problem, identify a subgoal, make a diagram, or work backwards.
While developing student’s problem solving skills, professional math teachers must begin to teach students to understand the meanings of whole numbers. This step will serve as scaffolding for students as they encounter more advanced concepts. Teachers should encourage the use of manipulatives, such as base-ten blocks, as they will help students relate whole numbers to something real. Teachers can also use Venn diagrams as they allow students to graphically organize material, which aids in the development of their analytical skills and teaches them to draw conclusions based on specific criteria.
References: Billstein, R., Lineskind, S. and Lott, J. (2010). A Problem Solving Approach to Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers (10th ed.). Boston: Pearson Education, Inc.