Problem Solving Scenarios

Imagine your favorite toy is broken. What is the FIRST step you should take in solving this problem?

• Ask a grown-up to fix the toy.

• Identify that the toy is broken.

• Throw the toy in the garbage can.

• Find a different toy to play with.

Your class is having trouble reading the board because the words are too small. What data would be most helpful to understand the size of the problem?

• How many kids are having problems

• What time class starts each day.

• What the teacher had for lunch.

• How many letters are on the board.

There's lots of trash on the playground after lunch! To find a solution that actually works, what must you limit?

• The cost of new playground games.

• The number of students at recess.

• The kinds and number of trash.

• Limit the time children spend outside.

Your friend is upset because they didn't get to play their favorite game at recess. Which solution is the MOST considerate?

• Tell them to just get over it.

• Suggest a game they both enjoy.

• Walk away and play by yourself.

• Ignore them and play that game.

You notice that many students are arriving late to class. What information will help to identify causes of the problem?

• The students' favorite after school snack.

• The distance students live from school.

• The number of teachers in the school.

• How long it takes to eat breakfast.

The school cafeteria is always crowded during lunch. What is a possible unintended consequence of adding more tables to the cafeteria?

• Students might spill more food.

• The food might taste better now.

• Students will all eat healthy food.

• The school will make better money.

You and your friend disagree on what game to play. What is generating alternative solutions so you can both enjoy?

• Ignoring your friend and playing it.

• Only letting your friend choose one.

• Deciding on a completely new game.

• Telling your friend only you decide.

Several students are struggling with their math homework. Which idea addresses the most issues?

• Ask the teacher for extra help.

• Blame the textbook for the problems.

• Copy answers from a classmate.

• Pretend you do not have homework.

Your class wants to raise money for a school trip. What is a negative point of having a bake sale?

• You will raise a lot of money.

• You can get more people involved.

• It involves planning and time.

• Everyone will get to eat cookies.

The school library is too noisy during reading time. Suggest a practical and effective solution to this issue:

• Allow everyone to yell and scream.

• Ask student to be a little quieter.

• Have everyone read in the hallways.

• Establish quiet reading zones and rules.