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STAR Problem-Solving for Math 
Set Up, Tools, Act, & Reflect

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xkcd comic by Randall Munroe

Set Up : Understand the problem.

  • Do you understand all the words used in stating the problem?
  • What are you asked to find or show?
  • Can you restate the problem in your own words?
  • Is there enough information to enable you to find a solution?

Tools : Plan your approach by choosing an appropriate strategy.

  • Act It Out—use physical objects or models to represent the problem.
  • Choose an Operation—what sort of arithmetic is called for (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) by the problem?
  • Guess and Check—when there is more than one variable involved, control one variable to test what combinations will result in a solution.
  • Look for a Pattern—Do you see a repeated relationship between numbers in the problem?
  • Make a Chart or Table—when many combinations of numbers or objects are possible, a chart or table helps illustrate the possibilities.
  • Make a Drawing or Diagram--can you draw a picture or a diagram that might help you understand the problem?
  • Solve a Simpler or Similar Problem—have you seen a problem like this before? How did you solve it?
  • Use Logical Reasoning—a set of statements often creates a problem with a limited number of solutions (or only one).
  • Work Backwards—If an answer is given, can you reverse the steps in the problem to create the beginning values?  

Act : Solve the problem.

  • Persevere: Carry out your chosen strategy to completion.
  • Be Precise: Use care, patience, and skills.
  • Express your answer in units that make sense in terms of the problem.

Reflect : Look back and analyze the result.

  • Does your answer make sense?
  • Can you explain your reasoning?
  • Are there other possible solutions you overlooked?


​STAR Problem-Solving Checklist

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star_math_strategies_081018.pdf
File Size: 160 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

M3 Math Dispositions

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2018-19_m3_math.pdf
File Size: 203 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Active Learning Experiences in Resourceful Thinking: Our  Mission
​The Richland School District Two ALERT program for academically gifted students, in association with families, the district and global community, affords each learner unique challenges to inspire the pursuit of highest academic standards by providing rigorous, differentiated curricula that cultivates excellence in leadership and life-long learning.


Updated: 9 November 2019
Webpage maintained by the Active Learning Experiences in Resourceful Thinking (ALERT)  classes of Richland School District Two, Columbia, South Carolina.
Please direct queries to Mr. Kevin Durden.