Problem Solving

As I reflect on the week, one main theme becomes clear; problem solving. Being able to problem solve is a huge skill for everyday life. As I think about our week, our problem solving was mainly centered around the area of mathematics. Although our problem solving was directly related to academics, there is a direct correlation in the skills used that relate themselves to problem solving in all different aspects of life.

The first idea we discovered is: Solving problems can be very challenging because it takes hard work. Answers don't come instantly. We have to work hard at a problem in order to be able to solve it. The next idea we uncovered is that: In order to be succesful we must know lots of different strategies. In math our strategies include: draw a picture, guess and check, write an equation, act it out, use manipulatives, and work backwards. The third idea we found is probably the most difficult: We must persevere with determination. 

It was rewarding to watch students as they applied these problem solving principles and successfully solved some very challenging math problems. The true success being the application of these principles. What a rewarding week!

This weeks secret word is "determination."

Things you need to know:

Students should be reading 20 minutes each school night. Reading calendars are due at the end of the month. Self managers will lose their badges if they do not turn in their reading calendar at the end of November (Self managers must be responsible.)

After school math has started and we are having a blast! 

The weather is getting colder, please make sure your child is dressed accordingly.  

Thanks for all that you do!