When solving problems, it's important to recognise that the process doesn't end when the problem is solved. To help our students become resilient problem solvers, we need to offer opportunities to evaluate different solution methods and reflect on their own and other people's solutions.
In this collection of problems, we have included tasks that can be solved in more than one way, and tasks that give students space to solve, reflect and revisit.
In this collection of problems, we have included tasks that can be solved in more than one way, and tasks that give students space to solve, reflect and revisit.
problem
Fruity totals
Age
7 to 16
Challenge level
In this interactivity each fruit has a hidden value. Can you deduce what each one is worth?
game
Favourite
Diamond collector
Age
11 to 16
Challenge level
Collect as many diamonds as you can by drawing three straight lines.
problem
What's it worth?
Age
11 to 16
Challenge level
There are lots of different methods to find out what the shapes are worth - how many can you find?
problem
Peaches today, peaches tomorrow...
Age
11 to 14
Challenge level
A monkey with peaches, keeps a fraction of them each day, gives the rest away, and then eats one. How long can his peaches last?
problem
Cuboid challenge
Age
11 to 16
Challenge level
What's the largest volume of box you can make from a square of paper?
game
Favourite
Vector gem collector
Age
14 to 18
Challenge level
Use vectors to collect as many gems as you can and bring them safely home!
problem
Sorted
Age
14 to 18
Challenge level
How can you quickly sort a suit of cards in order from Ace to King?
problem
Tree tops
Age
14 to 16
Challenge level
Can you make sense of information about trees in order to maximise the profits of a forestry company?
article
Improving reasoning: analysing alternative approaches
In this article, Malcolm Swan describes a teaching approach designed to improve the quality of students' reasoning.
list
Reflecting on methods, improving solutions
The tasks in this feature have been designed to encourage learners to be curious about different routes to a solution.