Where can I find problems for my students to try?
Our Problems of the Week service provides current problems in four subject areas: Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Algebra, and Math Fundamentals (grades 3 - 5). The problems are paced to follow a typical progression of topics in each of those courses over the school year. A new problem is posted every two weeks, and students are encouraged to submit their solutions online, though many teachers simply print the problems and use them as classroom activities.
Each problem includes an answer check which allows students to see if they are correct, and hints to help them if
they are stuck. Some student solutions will be mentored by Math Forum staff or volunteers, and students are encouraged to continue to work on the problem and revise their solution, a powerful learning process.
Memberships can be purchased to guarantee that your students have access to the four current PoWs; subscriptions guarantee that they receive mentoring from Forum staff.
The Problem of the Week stresses good communication as well as good math. Student solutions should not only show
the work they have done, but also explain why they did it and what it means. Mentored solutions are scored on a
6-part rubric, with three categories for math and three for communication.
Are there other problems on the site besides the current Problems of the Week?
Every Problem of the Week we have used over the years is stored in our Active Problem Library, where they are categorized by course and
topic. Each problem also includes a solution and commentary, as well as samples of actual student solutions that were
submitted. Some problems also include teacher support materials, including alignment with NCTM standards. Use of the
library does require a subscription of $20 per year, but as one teacher recently told us in an email, "That's the best
$20 I've ever spent!"
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Why would I use the PoWs in my classroom?
- improve problem-solving skills
- develop mathematical communication
- experience mentoring with a personal touch
- learn new problem-solving methods
- practice writing well-crafted solutions
- use technology
The PoWs are designed to provide users with individualized mentoring
on non-routine word problems that will enhance their mathematical
thinking. Research indicates that students' ability to make real-world
connections, identify what a problem involves, and choose among strategies;
ability to explain mathematical concepts, work with mathematical terms,
and explain decision-making; independence in explaining their mathematical
thinking; and ability to focus on problem-solving all increase over time
as they participate in the Problem of the Week (see
"The Impact
of the Math Forum's Problem(s) of the Week on Students'
Mathematical Thinking," K. Ann Renninger, Laura Farra, and Claire
Feldman-Riordan, Swarthmore College).
How do I use the PoWs in my classroom?
Is there no computer available for you or your class? Print out
the problem for your students.
Is yours a one-computer classroom? Use a video projector or large monitor
display to show the problem.
Do you have a classroom mini-lab? Let students work and submit their answers
in groups.
Does your school have a computer lab? Your students can do group work
and submit as groups, or individual work and individual submissions.
An extension of students' mathematics instruction, the PoWs are
typically built into the existing curriculum, assigned as extra
credit, or undertaken as independent mathematical enrichment.
Go on to what teachers say about how
they use the Problems of the Week.
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