THE Solution

THOUGHT

There are multiple ways to find a correct answer to a math equation.

REFLECTION #1

When we tell students that there is only ONE way to find an answer in a math class, this limits their thinking. People, especially children, can be very creative and there are often multiple paths leading to a correct answer. Telling students that there is only one method, or one best method, removes this creativity, and I would go as far as to say that it affect their creativity in all areas of life.

REFLECTION #2

Students' discovery of different routes to a solution should not only be allowed by the teacher, but also encouraged. In thinking creatively about the various ways to find mathematical solutions, students further develop their broad thinking, and they might even think of "better" ways to solve equations than what the teacher might have knowledge of. Imagine if some of the most influential mathematicians and scientists of the past had restricted their thinking and problem solving, because there was only one "right" way.

There are multiple ways to represent 15÷3.

Note: In the above entry, I never refer to a solution as THE solution. This is done purposefully.