Math Problem Solving in Action

Problem solving should prepare students for the future. Problem solving is a big deal around the country and, in fact, around the world. It should be fun, but oftentimes it is greeted with dismay. Problem solving is about thinking, reasoning, exploring, hypothesizing and wondering. It takes dedication and perseverance. It takes “being up for the challenge.” It’s delicate. There are many aspects. One aspect is word problems. I€ am writing this book about how to get all kids to love word problems because I€truly believe it is possible. But, I€don’t think we will ever achieve that goal if we keep doing what we’ve been doing—especially considering who we are working with these days. Our students are called Generation Z. Generation Z (also known as iGen, Post-Millennials and Centennials) (https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Generation_Z) is the first generation to be born into a world where the Internet has always existed.