A Math Forum Project

Middle School Problem of the Week:
Information and Guidelines

I.  Goals and Objectives

The Problems of the Week are designed to give students the opportunity to solve non-routine problems in a supported environment. Hints, error-checking strategies, and other student solutions are made available so that they can reflect on and improve their own problem solving skills. Many students will also receive a reply from a member of our growing pool of mentors.

II.  Grade Level

Middle School Problems of the Week are designed for students in grades 6-9 (ages 11-14), but may also be appropriate for students in other grades. You are encouraged to use these problems as they meet your needs.

III.  Problem Solvers

Solutions will be accepted from individuals, small groups, teams, and classes.

Small groups may have up to four members who are individually identified by name. Members may change from week to week.

Teams and classes will need to choose a group name by which they will be identified.

IV. Submitting a Solution

As of January 21, 2002, the Problems of the Week are using a new format. After a student submits a solution, they can access hints, error-checking strategies, and compare their solution to those of other students. At this time not everyone will receive a response from a mentor, but the extra resources available to the students should allow them to reflect on and improve their problem solving skills.

You can read more about the new format of the Problems of the Week at http://mathforum.org/pow/powstatus.html.

V.  Timeline and Deadlines

Problems are posted every two weeks from September through May. New problems are posted Monday mornings. Students can submit answers for 15 days (through Monday night), and students have an additional three days (until Thursday night) to revise their answers. Some sample student solutions are posted on the 19th day (Friday morning), and more student solutions and comments are available some time after that. You can view the current calendar at http://mathforum.org/midpow/calendar.ehtml.

VI.  Contact Person

Annie Fetter
webmaster@mathforum.org
Middle School Project Coordinator
The Math Forum