Online Courses for Teachers

Middle School Math Problem Solving

(Grades 6-8) / Flex Course

PDI Course Number: 96T02 / UCSD Course Number: EDUC40104

Course Description

Have you ever wondered why some of your students excel in math but seem to falter when it comes to solving problems? This online course for teachers is designed for educators in grades 6-8 who want to help their students become critical and logical mathematical thinkers. Information on the problem-solving process is shared together with distinct suggestions for incorporating specific problem-solving strategies into math instruction. The course begins by building problem-solving foundations such as how to break down a word problem, how to approach math vocabulary, and how to visualize and perform the problem. Then, specific strategies are shared such as thinking logically, predicting and estimating, using a model or diagram, creating a table to find a pattern, and using an algorithm or formula. Teachers will gain valuable classroom ideas including using manipulatives, developing real-world problems, and checking and explaining solutions. Teachers will gain strategies for differentiating their math instruction so that all students can find success in problem solving. Teachers will also learn how to appropriately assess students in the problem-solving process. Finally, ideas for connecting the math problem-solving process to other content areas will be shared. By the end of this continuing education course, teachers will have the tools they need to effectively teach their students the problem-solving process. This online professional development course is worth 3 ⅓ semester units/5 quarter units (50 hours of training) from University of California San Diego (UCSD) Division of Extended Studies. For detailed information on receiving university credit for your PDI professional development course, visit our credit page.

Need help? Allison Wynne, PDI Program Coordinator, is ready to assist.

"The class content was clear and easy to read which made the course very easy to follow. The content was also extremely interesting and will be very useful throughout my teaching career. The resources chosen for the course helped me to gain so much knowledge and will give me the opportunity to improve the educational experience for my students in many ways." - Anthony DiMarco