Understanding The Question

Resource for Grades 9-12

Understanding The Question

Media Type:
Video

Running Time: 1m 04s
Size: 1.3 MB


Resource Produced by:

KET

Collection Developed by:

KET

Collection Funded by:


Following a process will help you to solve problems. The first step in the problem-solving process is to understand the question.

These resources are part of KET's Measurement and Geometry collection.

This video segment originally appeared in KET’s GED Connection series.

open Background Essay

Whether you are looking for a new car, planning a family reunion, or working with math, any problem is more manageable if you break it down into steps. The first step when approaching any problem is to understand the question. Focusing on the question will keep you from getting distracted or confused.

Following a problem-solving strategy will help you to analyze a problem, find the necessary facts, perform the correct operations, and decide whether the result seems reasonable.


open Discussion Questions

  • What are the basic steps in the problem-solving process?
  • How do you usually approach solving a problem?
  • Why do you think understanding the question is the first step in the problem-solving process?
  • Think about a problem you are facing now. Can you use the problem-solving steps to help you find a solution?

open Teaching Tips

Have learners brainstorm different problems to be solved. For instance, maybe the speed limit should be lowered or raised, or cell phone use should be banned while driving, or a workplace policy should be changed. Have them work in small groups to identify the problem in writing and share with the class. Conduct a group discussion to further refine the question, if necessary.


open Standards

 
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