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1.1 Integers and Rational Numbers

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www.ck12.org Chapter 13. Problem Solving13.1 A Problem-Solving PlanMuch of mathematics apply to real-world situations. To think critically <strong>and</strong> to problem solve are mathematicalabilities. Although these capabilities may be the most challenging, they are also the most rewarding.To be successful in applying mathematics in real-life situations, you must have a “toolbox” of strategies to assistyou. The last few lessons of many chapters in this FlexBook are devoted to filling this toolbox so you to become abetter problem solver <strong>and</strong> tackle mathematics in the real world.Step #1: Read <strong>and</strong> Underst<strong>and</strong> the Given ProblemEvery problem you encounter gives you clues needed to solve it successfully. Here is a checklist you can use to helpyou underst<strong>and</strong> the problem.√ Read the problem carefully. Make sure you read all the sentences. Many mistakes have been made by failing tofully read the situation.√ Underline or highlight key words. These include mathematical operations such as sum, difference, product, <strong>and</strong>mathematical verbs such as equal, more than, less than, is. Key words also include the nouns the situation isdescribing such as time, distance, people, etc.√ Ask yourself if you have seen a problem like this before. Even though the nouns <strong>and</strong> verbs may be different, thegeneral situation may be similar to something else you’ve seen.√ What are you being asked to do? What is the question you are supposed to answer?√ What facts are you given? These typically include numbers or other pieces of information.Once you have discovered what the problem is about, the next step is to declare what variables will represent thenouns in the problem. Remember to use letters that make sense!Step #2: Make a Plan to Solve the ProblemThe next step in the problem-solving plan is to make a plan or develop a strategy. How can the information youknow assist you in figuring out the unknown quantities?Here are some common strategies that you will learn.• Drawing a diagram• Making a table• Looking for a pattern• Using guess <strong>and</strong> check• Working backwards271

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