It is important that schools emphasize a problem-solving approach to mathematics beginning in the early years and continuing through high school. Students should learn to value the process of solving problems, as well as getting the correct solutions. The strategies in this book will help students reason, develop their problem-solving strategies, grow in their ability to communicate mathematically, and develop confidence in their mathematical abilities.

Five different problem-solving strategies are carefully taught using teacher-directed interactive introductory lessons. A series of practice problems follow the introductory lessons for each strategy. The strategies include:

• using a manipulative or acting out a problem,
• drawing a picture or diagram,
• extending a repeating pattern,
• making a table or list, and
• choosing relevant information.

Each strategy is first introduced through several carefully presented problems that include introductory group lessons and instructional notes for the teachers. Additionally, the last section of the book presents a variety of problems that give students the opportunity to apply the problem-solving strategies they have learned. This is the perfect supplement to any primary math program, as well as an excellent resource for a math center. All problems are delightfully illustrated and reproducible.

Grades 2-4

Sharon Eckert has devoted her teaching career of 35 years to the education of primary students. She has taught kindergarten through third grade. However, second grade was her favorite, and she chose to teach at that level for 30 years.

During her years of service in School District 89 in Glen Ellyn, IL, Eckert has served on district curriculum committees in language arts, math, and social studies; district committees for report cards, textbook adoptions, and teacher-in-service; and numerous building committees. Her interest in photography has led her to record various events and social functions throughout the district. Eckert earned her bachelor's degree in education and master's degree in education from Illinois State University.

Judy Leimbach received her master's degree in Instructional Strategies in Gifted Education from National-Louis University. She has 14 years of experience teaching in regular classrooms, kindergarten through fifth grade, and 14 years experience teaching gifted students in grades 1-5. In addition, she has spent 5 years supervising groups of student teachers at Wheaton College.
When she first started teaching in a gifted program, there were few materials available for gifted students in primary grades, so Leimbach began writing her own and had several books published. Having previously taught in the regular classroom, she also was very aware of the need for high quality, easy-to-use materials for regular classroom teachers to use for their gifted students in both primary and intermediate grades. She began working with other teachers, including her daughter, a middle school math teacher, to develop materials to meet that need.