Problem Solving Prompts
Learning Goals:
- Determine the missing numbers in equations
- Investigate variables as unknown quantities
- Communicate mathematical thinking orally and visually
The Challenge:
Steve is a birdwatcher. On his walk yesterday he saw a total of 28 birds.
He saw twice as many chickadees as blue jays.
He saw three fewer blue jays than woodpeckers.
He saw one red-tailed hawk and 10 chickadees.
He also saw some herons.
How many herons, blue jays and woodpeckers did he see?
Questions and Prompts to Support your Child:
- Which bird did you figure out first?
- What have you tried so far? What could we try together?
- How do you know that those values work for each bird?
Extensions & Adaptations:
- If struggling with calculations, have a calculator handy!
- If unable to get started, try starting with clues that we have information for (twice as many chickadees as blue jays.)
- Check out Mashup Math for some more algebraic puzzles!
- Join the WRDSB Backyard Bird Count 2020 – a three day event from April 21-23 organized by our Outdoor and Environmental Education Department
Source: University of Waterloo – CEMC Problem of the Week Database
Categories: Elementary