Problem solving is one of the four proficiency strands in the Australian Maths Curriculum. Research shows that problem solving strategies need to be explicitly taught, talked about, compared and reflected upon if students are to become adept problem solvers.

Natural Maths has been at the forefront of creating effective materials for problem solving for many years. Recently we have updated our approach to and pedagogy for maths problem solving to include interactive materials and a revised approach to the Polya model for problem solving, which we call the STAR model. The STAR model has been well received by students who can make sense of the prompts as well as with teachers who can use the generic question starters to stimulate thinking and problem solving.

The STAR problem solving model is fully compatible with the ACM.  In particular, if working on the the indicators that mention problem solving – ACMNA015, ACMNA030, ACMNA057, ACMNA101, and ACMNA123 – the STAR model would be very beneficial.

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