1. Literature Review Author: Margaret Taplin
Title: Mathematics Through Problem Solving
Year: 2014

2. Literature Review Main Idea(s) Supporting Evidence
Teaching Mathematics in a Single Subject Assignment
Teach in an inquiry oriented environment
Allow students to construct deep meaning of mathematical constructs through experiential learning
Provide opportunities where students explore and generalize
Teach students the skill but let them clarify, interpret, and construct a solution to the problem
Use a problem solving approach to develop logical thinking
(TPE 1-B)
Supporting Evidence
“Problem solving is an important component of mathematics education because it is the single vehicle which seems to be able to achieve…all three values of mathematics: functional, logical, and aesthetics” (Taplin, 2014).
Teaching the skills and providing students with a problem is more motivating because it puts knowledge into context.
“The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM, 1980) recommended that problem solving be the focus of mathematics teaching because, they say, it encompasses skills and functions which are an important part of everyday life” (Taplin, 2014).
“Problem solving is, however, more than a vehicle for teaching and reinforcing mathematical knowledge and helping to meet everyday challenges. It is also a skill which can enhance logical reasoning” (Taplin, 2014).
“A problem-solving approach can provide a vehicle for students to construct their own ideas about mathematics and to take responsibility for their own learning” (Taplin, 2014).

3. References
Taplin, M. (2014). Mathematics through problem solving. Retrieved on April 21, 2014 from olving.html