Session 1     September 19, 2007

Exploratory Problems presented by Dr. Fred Stevenson

What are the components of a good exploratory problem?

1. The problem should be attractive and easy to understand.


2. The mathematics involved should be relevant to the student.


3. The problem should allow for collection of data.


4. The data should generate a pattern.


5. The patterns should lead to conjectures.


6. The conjectures should lead to a solution.


7. The solution should allow for an explanation.


8. The problem should have natural extensions.





Dr. Stevenson worked through The Supersum Problem with the group, then posed several problems for teachers to solve “over dinner & discussion” time. The large group reconvened near the end. Teachers took turns presenting their progress on the problems.




Some of the AIMS Standards addressed include:
1.2.1 Select grade-level appropriate operations to solve word problems.
1.2.2 Solve word problems using grade-level appropriate operations and numbers.
1.2.3 Apply grade-level appropriate properties to assist in computation.
1.2.5 Use grade-level appropriate mathematical terminology.
2.3.1 Determine all possible outcomes using a systematic approach.
3.2.1 Describe the rule used in a simple grade-level appropriate function.
3.3.2 Use variables in a contextual situation.


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