Chapter 3:

problem solving and reasoning

Mathematical Reasoning is the process of using logic and evidence to solve math problems. It involves using prior knowledge, algorithm, and
assumptions to draw conclusions.

Kind of Reasoning

Intuitive is similar to guessing. It is also called reasoning by guessing or reasoning by common sense.
Example:

Analogy is a form of reasoning in which other similarities are inferred from a particular similarity between two things.
Example:
Tree is to leaf as a flower is to petal
Hammer: nail :: Comb : Hair

Inductive Reasoning – is the process of reaching a general conclusion by examining specific example.
Example:
3, 6, 9, 12, 15, __?

Deductive reasoning – is the process of reaching conclusion by applying general assumption, procedure or principles.

Example:
Pick a number. Multiply the number by 8 add 6 to the product divide the sum by 2 and subtract 3.
Solution:
The number is n
Multiply the number 8xn = 8n
Add 6 to the product 8n +6
Divide the sum by 2 (8n+6) / 2 = 4n +3
Subtract 3 4n +3 -3 = 4n
Therefore, the number is four times the original number.

Pick a number. Multiply the number by 4 add 8 to the product divide the sum by 2 and subtract 4.
Solution:
The number is n
Multiply the number 4xn =4n
Add 8 to the product 4n +8
Divide the sum by 2 (4n + 8) /2 = 2n +4
Subtract 4 2n + 4 – 4 = 2n
Therefore, the number is twice the original number.

Problem Solving

A problem is a situation in which a person wants something and does not know immediately what series of actions he can perform to get it.

Problem solving is by which an individual uses previously acquired knowledge, skills and understanding to satisfy the demands of an unfamiliar
situation.

Problem solving means engaging in a task for which the solution method is not known in advance. In order to find a solution, learner must draw
on their knowledge and through this process, they will often develop new mathematical understandings.

In problem solving, there must be a goal, blocking of that goal for the individual, and acceptance of that goal by the individual.
Solving problem is not only a goal of knowing mathematics, but also a major means of doing so.
Problem solving may be presented through the following diagram
GOAL - OBSTACLE - SOLUTION

The diagram shows that problem solving is a process and comprises the following components: Goal, Obstacle, and Solution.
For the process of problem solving to be successful, all these three components have to be well-defined.

To check as to the clarify of each component, the problem solver may ask the following question:
GOAL: The goal states what to be accomplished.
What is required of needs to be accomplished in the problem?
What relevant information or data are available to solve the problem?
What unfamiliar terms need to be defined?

OBSTACLE: The obstacle presents a real problem that hinders one from easily arriving at the solution.
How can I solve the problem?
Where can I start?
What appropriate strategy can be used?

SOLUTION: The solution presents the achievement of the goal after the strategy has been employed. It’s now time to reflect to find out it the
problem solving process has been successful.
Does the solution make sense?
Does the solution satisfy the requirement?
Are there other possible solutions?
Is there a more appropriate strategy to use?
Is there a simpler way to solve the problem?

Problem solving is an important skill not only in dealing with mathematics, but also in making decisions in life.
Decision-making is a significant part of problem solving. Learners should be taught how to solve problems logically and accurately; and in the
process, they discover that there are various ways to solve a problem.

George Polya, a Hungarian mathematician, described the methods of problem solving in his book “How to solve it”.
Polya Four Step Problem Solving Process.
1. Understanding the problem. To help to understand the problem consider the following:
Restate the problem in your own words.
Determine exactly what is asked for
Identify or list the given data, conditions, and information.
Identify the unknown

4. Look back. Polya mentions that much can be gained by taking the time to reflect, examine and look back at what you have done, what worked
and what didn’t doing this will enable you to predict what strategy to use to solve future problems, if these relate to the original problem.
Ensure the solution in the consistent with the facts of the problem.
Examine the solution obtained. Check the results in the original problems.
Interpret the solution in terms of the original problem
Determine whether there is another method of finding the solution.

Example: One number is 7 more than another. Twice the larger is equal to four times the smaller decreased by 2. find the numbers.
Step 1. Understand the problem
We are looking for two numbers wherein one is 7 more than another, and if the larger is doubled, it will be equal to four times the
smaller decreased by two.
Step 2. Devise a Plan
We can use the “Formulate an equation” strategy.
x = smaller number
x+7 = larger number
Equation: 2(x+7) = 4x-2

Step 3. Carry out the plan

Step 4. look back

Example: One number is 12 more than another. Twice the larger is equal to four times the smaller decreased by 4. find the numbers.