Problem Solving Prompts

Learning Goals:

  • Solve problems involving the addition of multi-digit whole numbers
  • Estimate and determine elapsed time
  • Communicate mathematical thinking orally and visually

The Challenge:

Lindsay takes her dog Walter for a walk every day.

  • On Monday she took him for a 45-minute walk.
  • On Tuesday, they walked for 5 minutes longer than on Monday.
  • On Wednesday, they walked for half as much time as Tuesday.
  • On Thursday, they walked for 10 minutes less than Monday.
  • On Friday, they walked for 15 minutes more than Thursday.
  • On Saturday, they walked for twice as long as Monday.

How many minutes did Lindsay spend walking Walter in total from Monday to
Saturday?

Lindsay wants to make sure that Walter is getting enough exercise. How long must Walter’s walk be on Sunday to guarantee he walks for at least 6 hours this week?

Questions and Prompts to Support your Child:

  • What strategy did you use to find each walk length?
  • What have you tried so far? What could we try together?
  • How is adding time different from adding other numbers?
  • Can you think about your total in hours, as well as minutes?

Extensions & Adaptations:

  • If struggling with calculations, have a calculator handy!
  • Keep track of the length of your own neighbourhood walks, and create a puzzle for someone else to solve!

Source: University of Waterloo – CEMC Problem of the Week Database