Stephane Bolton, First Grade Teacher, Kilby Laboratory School, AL

When I introduced problem-solving tasks to my first graders in the past, I often saw confusion, frustration, and even a few groans and tears. This semester, however, problem-solving has become one of their favorite parts of math class! Thanks to Exemplars tasks and the five-step Problem-Solving Process, what used to be a challenging and mundane activity has been transformed into a weekly highlight. 

Here are five tips to make problem-solving engaging and meaningful for our youngest mathematicians:

1. Go Slow to Go Fast

Take your time when introducing the Exemplars Problem-Solving Process. Start by presenting a real-world problem that isn’t related to math to ease students into the idea. For example, you might say, “We have a big problem – there is a cat stuck in a tree. How can we help?” Students will suggest countless creative solutions, and you can highlight how the same problem can be solved in many ways. This sets the stage for connecting their ideas to multiple solution paths in mathematical problem-solving.

When teaching the five-step Problem-Solving Process, ensure students understand WHAT each step involves and WHY it’s important. Avoid introducing the entire process in one day; this could overwhelm young learners. Instead, break it into management parts.

For example, when I introduced the process to my first graders, we focused on just one or two steps each day. We created anchor charts for each step, using the Exemplars visuals and color coding to reinforce learning. Students also colored an Exemplars Problem-Solving Hand that mirrored the steps, which they kept in the front of their problem-solving notebooks. By moving slowly and reviewing frequently, my students gained confidence and mastery over time.

"When I introduced problem-solving tasks to my first graders in the past, I often saw confusion, frustration, and even a few groans and tears. This semester, however, problem-solving has become one of their favorite parts of math class! Thanks to Exemplars tasks and the five-step Problem-Solving Process"

2. Help Students Understand the Problem by Focusing on Engagement

Understanding the problem is the first and most crucial step of the Problem-Solving Process. Without clarity on the task, students can’t progress effectively. For this reason, we spend a lot of time emphasizing this initial step of the problem-solving process.

I often use the “three-reads” routine to guide my students:

1. First Read: Read the problem aloud without numbers or a question. Students discuss what the problem is about. This is also an opportunity to integrate literacy skills by identifying characters, setting, and plot.
2. Second Read: Have the class chorally read the problem with the question or prompt but without numbers. Students discuss what they need to find out and what information they’ll need.
3. Third Read: Include numbers this time. A student volunteer reads the problem while classmates whisper-read along. Students then summarize what they need to solve.

To keep things engaging, I incorporate activities like role-playing, creating visuals on the interactive whiteboard, and retelling the problem with partners. These strategies help all students stay involved, regardless of their confidence levels, while promoting collaboration and comprehension.

3. Provide Hands-On Materials

Young mathematicians thrive when they have tools to support their problem-solving efforts. Carefully plan each task by solving it yourself first. This helps you anticipate the tools students might need.

Consider making math vocabulary table tents or other visual aids to encourage students to use academic language during discussions and in their work. Providing these materials fosters independence and builds confidence as students navigate challenging tasks.

4. Reflect in a Child-Friendly Way

Reviewing solutions is an essential part of the Problem-Solving Process, but it can be tricky for young learners. Explicitly teach what it means to reflect critically on their work. 

I use a student-friendly checklist to guide this step. At first, I model its use, often using anonymous samples of student work or asking for volunteers willing to share. Once students are comfortable, they use the checklist for peer reviews, and eventually, for self-assessment. 

Over time, this reflection process becomes second nature. Students develop metacognitive skills, which empower them to think deeply about their work and improve independently.

5. Build Confidence Through Playful Problem-Solving

Routines are key to building problem-solving stamina and skills. In my class, we tackle an Exemplars task every week, and this consistent practice helps students grow gradually throughout the year. 

To make it even more engaging, I created the Exemplars Detective Agency! Each week, my first graders transform into detectives ready to crack a new case. Using a presentation template, I introduce each task with the engagement image provided by Exemplars and invite students to predict what the new case might involve.

Every detective has a notebook (complete with their photo in a detective costume) to record their findings. This notebook becomes a portfolio of their math problem-solving growth and a source of pride during our student-led conferences at the end of the year. To add extra motivation, we also recognize a “Detective of the Week” for outstanding effort and problem-solving.

Conclusion