Big Ideas and Problem Solving

in Junior Math Instruction

Christina Mak

What are Big Ideas?

They are concepts that
are central to the learning of mathematics[1]
make connections between various math concepts
link math understanding into a coherent whole [1]

[1] https://www.teachersdg.org/2015%20Seminar%20Docs/OK%20Van%20Zoest%20Charles%202005%20MATH-Big-Ideas_NCSM_Spr05v73p9-24.pdf

Why teach Big Ideas?

We understand something if we see
how it is related or connected to
other things we know. [2]
Teaching Big Ideas helps our students
develop a deeper understanding of math concepts
perform logical procedures vs. a series of steps
become motivated to learn

[2] Hiebert, J., & Carpenter, T. (1992). Learning and Teaching with Understanding. In Handbook of Research on Mathematics Teaching and Learning (p. 4). Macmillan.

How to Teach Big Ideas?

Problem-Solving Approach
Provide students with a real-life math problem
Allow them to talk out how to solve it in groups
Share possible solutions with the whole class
Reflect on the best ways to approach the problem

Why a Problem-Solving Approach?

The Problem-Solving Approach
Shows students that math is meaningful
Fosters perseverence in students
Helps students apply and extend understanding
Encourages class participation and collaboration
Creates a supportive classroom environment
PSA also sends the message that theres always
more than one way to look at any problem or
situation. [3]
[3] http://eworkshop.on.ca/edu/resources/guides/ExpPanel_456_Numeracy.pdf

Steps to PSA

[4] Image from https://ccmit.mit.edu/problem-solving/

Step 1: Identify & Define

Teachers
Pose an open mathematical question to students
that is appropriate and challenging
Students
Put the question into their own words to let the
teacher know that they understand it

Step 2: Explore
Teachers
Form beneficial student groupings
Encourage group discussion of possible solutions
Students
Think of possible ways to approach the problem
Try out solution ideas with group members

Step 3: Take Action & Look Back

Teachers
Bring the whole class back together for discussion
Facilitate a risk-free sharing of solutions
Choose specific samples of strategies to focus on

Students
Share solution ideas with the rest of the class
Reflect on the various solutions presented

PSA Classroom Structures

To support PSA, the classroom should
Have ample space for flexible groupings
Have supporting resources (e.g. manipulatives)
Be a place of support and respect for all

Communication is Key in PSA!

It is important because it allows students to
Organize their ideas
Clarify and consolidate their own understanding by
explaining their ideas to others
Receive feedback for their thinking
Hear the thoughts and view points of their peers
Better remember math concepts through discussion
Feel valued and heard in the classroom

[5] http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/marilyn-burns-10-big-math-ideas

Strategies to Implement PSA

Just remember
Pose problems that students can relate to
Pose problems that can be tackled in multiple ways
Show students how to positively communicate
Give students enough time to explore the problem
Think of mistakes as opportunities for learning
Take advantage of teachable moments
Connect solutions to Big Ideas!

[5] http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/marilyn-burns-10-big-math-ideas

Helpful Resources
For further information on Big Ideas and PSA
(Other than the ones presented in the course):

http://www.learner.org/resources/series98.html
http://www.oame.on.ca/main/index1.php?lang=en&code=home
https://nrich.maths.org/10341
http://www.mathgoodies.com/articles/problem_solving.html

https://www.teachersdg.org/2015%20Seminar%20Docs/OK%20Van%20Zoest%20Charles%2020
05%20MATH-Big-Ideas_NCSM_Spr05v73p9-24.pdf