This is an approach to problem solving which, anecdotally, has proved really effective when used with pupils over an extended period of time (a number of years). It essentially simply asks the pupils to develop the habit of looking at a Maths problem (diagram and text) and repeatedly asking the questions:
- ‘What do I see?’ and
- ‘What do I know (about what I see)?’
This can then be followed up with
- ‘What do I think?’
Examples of it in practice can be seen in the following Maths Without Limits activities:
Fractions on a Hundred Square
This short exploration uses a hundred square as a representation of one whole, to explore how fractions work on a hundred square. It is assumed that the children have a basic understanding of...
Rectangle Diagram – Multiply Two Numbers
This is one of a series of visual skill builders which are designed to give children a toolkit of diagrams, words and phrases to help them explain their mathematical understanding and solve...
Factor Rainbows
A factor rainbow is a beautiful idea that deserves to be part of every child’s Mathematical vocabulary. This mini exploration encourages them to explore freely and see how many they can find....