Problem Solving

Problem solving must be more than routine exercises. It cannot be viewed as an "add on" to classroom instruction but rather an important goal. Problem solving should be viewed as a means to mathematical understanding as well as a set of procedures. Engaging students in problem-centered learning will allow students to see connections within and between content areas. Students will develop the ability to employ and select appropriateness of a variety of strategies for designing solutions. Problem-centered learning creates a model where the student becomes the thinker and is engaged in a self-directed search for solutions.

Students must experience problems where flexible use of knowledge is required. Directed and focused questions must challenge students to select from a variety of strategies. Students need to analyze problems, determine what information is needed to solve them, and design solutions. Appropriate tasks should engage all students and provide opportunities for extensions that encourage students to go beyond minimum expectations. The teacher becomes a tutor or coach who facilitates the students' investigations.

Mathematical Problem Solving Strategies: This web site contains a collection of problems, with solutions and strategies, laid out in a systematically manner to assist students / teachers with problem solving - Click here 

If you are interested in the different approaches to Problem Solving then I suggest that you take a look at this website put together by John Malouff which provides an analysis of 50 strategies.  50 Strategies

"if it is problem solving you are interested in I think we can help.
As a starting point you could try stealing ideas from our Task Cameos - Click here
You will find over 60 investigations here which can be used either for a pair of students - photos in each cameo show you that form - or as a whole class investigation. "Doug Williams"

The Liverpool Mathematical Society have produced a CDRom which comprises 250 mathematics puzzles designed for pupils from top juniors to upper sixth form arranged in ten boxes of 25 puzzles. Click here for more details