Problem-Solving Strategies for Efficient and Elegant Solutions, Grades 6-12

by Alfred S. Posamentier, Stephen Krulik

2008 · Corwin Press

"The authors have provided a unique, strategy-focused resource supported by a wealth of engaging examples that mathematics teachers can readily use to help students develop a more purposeful, systematic, and successful approach to problem solving." —Howard W. Smith, Superintendent Public Schools of the Tarrytowns, Sleepy Hollow, NY "Helps both new and veteran teachers better understand the nature of problem solving as a critical mathematics process. The authors present in very simple terms the strategies that are the backbone of mathematics instruction. This indispensable material is useful at all levels, from basic stages to advanced student work to the development of top problem solvers." —Daniel Jaye, Principal Bergen County Academies, Hackensack, NJ Help students become skilled and confident problem solvers! Demonstrating there is always more than one approach to solving a problem, well-known authors and educators Alfred S. Posamentier and Stephen Krulik present ten basic strategies that are effective for finding solutions to a wide range of mathematics problems. These tried-and-true methods—including working backwards, finding a pattern, adopting a different point of view, solving a simpler analogous problem, and making a visual representation—make problem solving easier, neater, and more understandable for students as well as teachers. Providing numerous sample problems that illustrate how mathematics teachers and specialists can incorporate these techniques into their mathematics curriculum, this updated edition also includes: A variety of new problems that show how to use the strategies References to current NCTM standards Solutions to the problems in each chapter Extensive discussions of the empowering strategies used to solve sample problems The second edition of Problem-Solving Strategies for Efficient and Elegant Solutions, Grades 6–12 helps teachers develop students′ creative problem-solving skills for success in and out of school.

Exemplary Practices for Secondary Math Teachers

by Alfred S. Posamentier, Daniel Jaye

2007 · ASCD

Every year new secondary mathematics teachers take up positions in middle and high schools. The luckiest novices receive assistance from a coach or mentor: a master mathematics teacher who makes constructive comments, models effective approaches, and illuminates other practical aspects of teaching secondary math. But many new teachers don't have this advantage and must further their development on their own. If you are one of these teachers, this is the book you need. In these pages, veteran mathematics educators Alfred S. Posamentier, Daniel Jaye, and Stephen Krulik present a treasure chest of ideas to guide new secondary math teachers through the challenging first few months and also provide more experienced teachers with interesting alternatives to familiar methods. The topics covered include * The most effective instructional practices * The best uses of the textbook * Designing successful lessons * Creating homework that promotes learning * Incorporating challenge * Teaching reasoning and problem solving * Strategies for assessment and grading * Specific innovative ideas for teaching key concepts * Options for extracurricular activities * Long-term professional enrichment and growth. It's during the first few years of a teacher's experience that he or she develops the habits, methods, procedures, and techniques that tend to define a career. Exemplary Practices for Secondary Math Teachers provides both a foundation for excellence and a touchstone for years to come. Note: This product listing is for the Adobe Acrobat (PDF) version of the book.