The design of problems is crucial for the effectiveness of problem-based learning (PBL). Research has shown that PBL problems have not always been effective. Ineffective PBL problems could affect whether students acquire sufficient domain knowledge, activate appropriate prior knowledge, and properly direct their own learning. This paper builds on…

This handbook, developed by teachers in Manitoba, has been structured to provide teachers in grades 3 through 6 with a resource for teaching problem solving in mathematics. It consists of four sections. The first section establishes the background and states the purposes of the handbook. The second section provides a general overview of problem…

This curriculum support document, developed by a committee of teachers in Manitoba, contains information and practical applications dealing with key concepts of problem solving in mathematics for grades 7, 8, and 9. Contained in the handbook are: (1) an introduction that establishes the background and identifies the goal and objectives of the…

This publication provides background information, ideas, and sample activities to help teachers in their efforts to aid students in developing problem solving skills. It provides an overview of the stages in the problem solving model recommended in the elementary mathematics program of studies. Several clusters of problem solving strategies are…

This project was based on recent interview research which suggested that in choosing operations for story problems in mathematics many students are guided by computational considerations rather than meanings for the operations. This project aimed to refine the catalogue of strategies used by students and to design and test instructional materials…