Problem solving is the ability to identify and solve problems using appropriate skills in a systematic manner. There are five main steps to take when working on solving a problem: Identify the problem, brainstorm solutions, analyze each possible solution, choose and try a solution, and evaluate the outcome. Problem solving is an ongoing process that should be taught at a young age.
For this activity, the teacher will read Stuck by Oliver Jeffers aloud, while asking questions and engaging students in the story. After a class discussion about the book, students will create a cell illustrating and describing what Floyd could’ve done to get his kite out of the tree, instead of throwing several things into the tree and getting them stuck as well!
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a cell that illustrates and describes a different way that Floyd could have solved his problem.
Student Instructions
Explain to students how working together respectfully helps everyone find better solutions and builds a positive classroom community.
Assign roles like facilitator, recorder, and reporter so each student has a responsibility and learns how to contribute to group problem solving.
Encourage students to share ideas aloud and build off each other's suggestions, emphasizing that all ideas are valued in the process.
Support each team as they decide together which solution to try, and remind them to reflect on what works and what could improve next time.
Recognize and praise how students worked together, highlighting specific examples of collaboration and creative thinking.
Reading picture books like Stuck by Oliver Jeffers and guiding students through discussion and creative activities helps young learners grasp problem solving in a fun, accessible way.
Read Stuck aloud, pause to ask students questions, and discuss Floyd's choices. Then, have students illustrate and describe an alternative solution to get the kite down, encouraging creative thinking and reflection.
The five steps are: Identify the problem, brainstorm solutions, analyze each solution, choose and try one, and evaluate the outcome. Teaching these steps helps students approach challenges systematically.
Great books include What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada, Going Places by Peter and Paul Reynolds, Papa’s Mechanical Fish by Candace Fleming, and Solutions for Cold Feet by Carrie Sookocheff.
Designing alternate endings encourages students to think creatively, analyze choices, and practice applying problem-solving steps to real or fictional situations, deepening understanding.