Introduction

In this lesson, you will learn the five steps in the problem-solving process:

Understand the question.
Find the facts you need.
Setup the problem with the correct operations.
Do the calculations.
Make sure your answer is reasonable.

In addition, you will learn the order of operations to perform when calculating a problem.

Objectives

When you complete this lesson you will:

q Apply a five-step approach to solving problems.

q Choose and apply operations correctly.

q Make sure the results make sense.

Learning Activities

1. Video:

a. Watch Program 29 where people discuss problem solving as a tool for making life decisions. As you watch, think about the problems the people are trying to solve and the way they go about solving them.

2. Workbook:

a. Read pages 41-44 and complete “Sneak Preview.”

b. Read page 45. Then complete and correct the exercises on pages 46-58 about using basic operations, writing equations, solving word problems, applying formulas, and solving multi-step problems.

c. Complete and correct the “GED Practice” on pages 60-63. This section is similar to the GED Math Test.

3. Internet:

a. Log onto your Home Space at http://litlink.ket.org and follow the links to GED Connection, Math. Under Internet Activities, open “28: Number Sense & Problem Solving” and complete the following.

i. Read “About This Activity.”

ii. Read “Key Ideas.”

iii. Complete all parts of the “Activity.” (NOTE: Be sure to click on “Save” after you type in each box.)

iv. Complete the “Quiz” and check your answers.

v. Complete the “Follow Up” activities.

Learning on the Go! With The Literacy Project

for more information contact:

Sharon Feeney

Distance Learning Coordinator

15 Bank Row

Suite C

Greenfield, MA 01301

413-774-3934 x14