Problems of the Week

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The Math Forum's Problems of the Week (PoWs) provide creative, non-routine challenges for students in grades three through high school geometry and algebra. Problem solving and mathematical communication are key elements of every problem.

Four Services currently available:

Schedule:

Students may work alone or with a partner or team.

Teacher Support Pages and Discussion Groups support teachers and mentors.

To the extent possible submissions are scored, based on a rubric, and given feedback with suggestions for improvement. Mentors focus on the mathematical thinking first, trying to help students achieve a sound solution path, but they also comment on the students' communication. In fact, students whose math is correct will almost always receive suggestions as to how they might make their explanation stronger. Our research demonstrates the value of revision!

Occasionally preservice teachers provide mentoring as they learn how to develop children’s problem solving skills (indicated by * next to the problem in calendar). Mentors may also include Math Forum staff and trained volunteers.

Guaranteed mentoring by Math Forum staff is available on a fee basis.

The Math Forum FunPoW Scoring Rubric in kid-friendly language:

Benefits of using Problem of the Week as a regular part of a math program