Why Problem Solving is Important in Math

Since math is all about coming up with answers, students need to problem solve to come up with these answers. Students need to do more than just practice math problems on worksheets and diddos, they need to use manipulatives and make problem solving as hands on as possible. Students who are visual can problem solve using visual images and objects. Students who are verbal learners can listen to problem solving strategies and verbalize their own problem solving strategies. Social learners can work on problem solving activities together, etc. Both math and science require high levels of thinking, Students with special needs can work on one problem solving strategy at a time until they've come up with the answer. Normally in both science and math there is only one answer or solution. In math and science, there is normally more than one way to come up with an answer. In both math and science, it's important to double check the answers to make sure that there were no mistakes or careless errors. As a student I've made many careless errors and mistakes and a big part of problem solving is being able to find your mistakes on your own. In both math and science, students have to ask themselves if the answer to the problem makes sense and if it looks right.