Math Problem Solving

HOT MATH: Instruction about Transfer and Self-Regulated Learning

Strategy: Math Problem Solving
Appropriate Grade Level: K-3
Procedures/Steps: HOT MATH first integrates practices in explicit instruction about transfer
1.  Each lesson begins with the teacher showing a problem that is already worked:
2.  The first 3-week unit is dedicated to basic problem-solving information
3.  The next four 3-week units each focuses on one problem type, e.g., “shopping list” problems.
Comments and/or tips:
Self-regulated learning strategies are therefore incorporated into each session, with six additional activities
1.  Student’s score each session’s final, independent problem using an answer key
2.  Student’s graph these daily scores on their personal thermometer chart
3.  At the beginning of the next session, students inspect their charts and set a goal to beat their highest score.
4.  Student’s score their homework prior to submitting it
5.  At the beginning of each sessions, student’s report to the class examples of how they have transferred the unit’s problem structure to something else
6.  Teacher record’s the number of students who complete, score, and submit homework on a class graph.
Source:

Fuchs, L.S., Fuchs, D., Prentice, K., Burch, M., & Paulsen, K. (2002). Hot

math: Promoting mathematical problem solving among third-grade students with disabilities. Teaching Exceptional Children, 31(1), 70-73.