Working Backwards in Problem Solving

The video tutorial introduces the problem-solving strategy of working backwards, also known as the unitary method. It provides an example problem where a number is manipulated through a series of operations, and the original number is found by reversing these operations. The tutorial also includes a practical problem involving distance, where Sally cycles part of the way to school and is driven the rest. The solution involves determining the total distance using the unitary method.

What is the main focus of the problem-solving strategy discussed in the podcast?

• Guess and check

• Working forwards

• Working backwards

• Trial and error

In the example problem, what is the first operation applied to the number?

• Add three

• Subtract four

• Divide by seven

• Multiply by two

What is the result after reversing the division by seven in the example problem?

• 9

• 18

• 14

• 2

What operation is reversed after obtaining 14 in the example problem?

• Divide by seven

• Add four

• Subtract four

• Multiply by two

What is the original number thought of in the example problem?

• 14

• 18

• 6

• 9

What is the opposite operation of multiplying by two in the example problem?

• Add two

• Multiply by three

• Divide by two

• Subtract two

What is the final result after verifying the solution in the example problem?

• 9

• 2

• 6

• 3

What is the purpose of verifying the solution in the example problem?

• To change the operations

• To find a new solution

• To simplify the problem

• To confirm the original number

How far does Sally cycle to school?

• 1/2 of the way

• The entire way

• 1/3 of the way

• 2/3 of the way

How many kilometers is the driving portion of Sally's journey?

• 12 km

• 3 km

• 6 km

• 9 km