Resource 2: Ways to help pupils solve problems

 Background information / subject knowledge for teacher

You can help your pupils become confident problem solvers by helping them to understand the importance of:

• reading the problem carefully to find the important parts;
• identifying the ‘deep’ features of a problem;
• deciding what exactly is involved;
• discussing and sharing different methods to solve the problem;
• testing out ideas;
• working alone and with others;
• being prepared to start again if there is a mistake;
• checking their work;
• asking other pupils or you for help when needed.

You can also help your pupils become confident problem solvers by:

• using contexts that are interesting to pupils when setting problems;
• making the classroom environment supportive so they can share ideas without fear of being laughed at.