Problem+Solving

= = = = = Welcome to the GATE Maths Problem Solving Programme = media type="custom" key="1830931"

__Focus: Problem Solving.__ The programme involves a range of problem solving activities to extend and challenge students with 5 competition entries into the Otago Programme Challenge.

Our group had five workshops where they shared and learnt a range of strategies to solve problems. There was an individual competition involving the Otago Problem Challenge questions along with a group competition where teams had to solve a range of problems and earn points.

Overall, our group grew in confidence and accuracy, especially as the group remained the same students. The value of having a continuous programme instead of "one off" workshops has been proven with this programme. Our students have developed confidence because they have got to know each other and feel safe in taking risks and sharing ideas. There was a range of ability and knowledge of strategies within the group. Students needed to be creative and look outside the square when trying to solve the problems. The value of working together with likeminded people was great! Our students found the Otago Problem Challenge a Challenge! But at the same time our scores improved as they progressed through the competition and of course as they learnt to use new and different strategies.

Here are some questions for you to try:
   A. Dolphin Tours runs sight-seeing trips in Kaikoura. Children pay one fare and adults another.    The Adams family with 4 adults and 6 children pay $120. The Bismati family with 2 adults and 4 children pay $70.    What is the cost of an adult fare?

B. The number 6 has exactly four factors 1,2,3 and 6.    What is the smallest number bigger than 10 which has exactly four factors?

Answers: A:$15 B:14            