Problem-Solving in Math Education

In this Math Teacher Lounge episode, hosts Dan Meyer and Bethany Lockhart Johnson welcome Fawn Nguyen, a veteran math teacher, to discuss the importance of problem-solving in math education. Fawn shares her insights on what constitutes true problem-solving, emphasizing that it involves tasks where students don't know the solution path. She advocates for front-loading challenging tasks to ensure all students are exposed to rich problem-solving opportunities. The discussion also covers the design of engaging tasks that are non-routine, simply stated, and enjoyable for teachers to solve. The episode concludes with contact information for further engagement.

Who is the guest featured in this episode of Math Teacher Lounge?

• Dan Meyer

• Bethany Lockhart Johnson

• Fawn Nguyen

• John Doe

What is a common misconception about problem-solving in math education?

• It requires advanced mathematical knowledge.

• It involves finding multiple solutions.

• It is only about solving word problems.

• It is about memorizing formulas.

According to the discussion, what should a true problem-solving task include?

• Multiple choice questions

• Surprise and contradiction

• A clear solution path

• Simple arithmetic

What is the benefit of front-loading challenging problems in a math class?

• It ensures all students are involved.

• It reduces the need for homework.

• It makes grading easier.

• It saves time at the end of the unit.

What does Fawn Nguyen suggest about the timing of challenging tasks in a curriculum?

• They should be left for the end of the unit.

• They should be optional for students.

• They should be used as extra credit.

• They should be introduced at the beginning.

Which of the following is NOT a criterion for a good problem-solving task?

• It has a single solution.

• It is non-routine.

• It is simply stated.

• The teacher enjoys solving it.

How does problem-solving help in creating an equitable classroom environment?

• By providing the same tasks to all students.

• By allowing only top students to participate.

• By using standardized tests.

• By focusing on routine exercises.

What is the role of the teacher in presenting a problem-solving task, according to Fawn Nguyen?

• To grade the task strictly.

• To provide the solution immediately.

• To enjoy and share the task as a gift.

• To solve the problem for the students.

What does Fawn Nguyen emphasize about the nature of problems in the real world?

• They are simple and routine.

• They are irrelevant to math.

• They are often unsolved.

• They are always solvable.

What is the impact of problem-solving on students with different academic performances?

• It favors high achievers.

• It highlights the differences.

• It levels the playing field.

• It discourages collaboration.