PROBLEM SOLVING METHOD
1. Define the method
2. when to use the method
3. How to use the method
4. Advantages of the method
5. Disadvantages of the method
6. Examples of topics you can teach using the method
7. Conclusion
Definition of the method
Problem-solving methods in the context of English and literature refer
to an approach that involves systematically identifying, analyzing, and
resolving issues that arise during the study of literary works, reading
comprehension, writing tasks, and language skills.
When to use the method in English Literature
• Reading Comprehension: When students struggle to grasp the
meaning of complex passages or texts. They might need help
identifying the main ideas, making inferences, or interpreting literary
devices used by the author.
• Literary Analysis: When analyzing themes, motifs, character
development, and literary techniques in novels, poems, and plays.
Problem-solving helps students break down texts and understand
deeper meanings.
Writing Challenges: When students need to improve their writing
skills, such as constructing well-organized essays, developing thesis
statements, or working through grammatical issues. They can use
When to use the method Continued
• Vocabulary Development: When students encounter unfamiliar words
in a text, they must solve the problem of figuring out the meaning and
usage through context clues, dictionaries, or word analysis.
Classroom Discussions and Debates: When students are asked to form
opinions and engage in discussions about literary texts, using problem-
solving can help them build strong arguments, support them with
evidence, and navigate different perspectives.
Group Work: When students collaborate to solve problems related to
understanding a text, analyzing a literary piece, or creating a group
project (e.g., a presentation on a book).
How to use the Method
• Step 1: Identify the Problem
- Start by clearly defining the problem or challenge. It could be
understanding the meaning of a poem, interpreting a character’s
actions, or solving a structural issue in an essay.
- Examples include questions like: "What does this character’s
decision reveal about them?" or "How does the author use metaphor in
this passage?"
How to use continued
• Step 2
• After identifying the challenge, break it down into smaller, more
manageable parts. For instance, if students struggle to understand a
poem, divide it by stanzas and analyze individual literary devices or
themes in each one. - In writing tasks, break down the steps:
brainstorming ideas, creating an outline, drafting, revising, and
proofreading.
Step 3: Generate Possible Solutions
- Encourage students to come up with several possible solutions or
interpretations. This stage requires creativity and brainstorming. For
example, when interpreting a poem, students might offer different
interpretations of a metaphor, and in writing, they could try different
How to use the method
• Step 4: Evaluate the Solutions
- Once students have generated possible solutions, evaluate the
feasibility and validity of each option. Encourage them to justify their
choices by referring to the text, using evidence and reasoning.
- In writing, for example, students can review their draft and decide
which thesis or argument works best based on the evidence they have
gathered.
Step 5: Apply the Chosen Solution
- Implement the best solution. This could mean rewriting a passage to
improve clarity, providing a deeper analysis of a literary element, or
writing an essay based on the selected structure and argument.
How to Use the method
• Step 6: Reflect
- After implementing the solution, students should reflect on the
effectiveness of their approach. Did their analysis or interpretation
align with the text? Did their writing improve? This stage encourages
growth and self-assessment.
- Ask students to consider what they learned from the process and how
they can apply these skills to future problems.
Advantages of the Method
Develops Critical Thinking: Students are required to think critically and
analytically, not just accept ideas but to question, evaluate, and
synthesize information.
Improves Comprehension: By breaking down difficult material and
analyzing it from different angles, students develop a better
understanding of complex texts.
Fosters Independence: Problem-solving encourages students to take
ownership of their learning. They are encouraged to think independently
and develop their own approaches to challenges.
.
Advantages of the Method
• Enhances Creativity: Students are encouraged to explore multiple
solutions to a problem, fostering creativity and innovative thinking,
particularly when interpreting literary works or generating writing
ideas
Boosts Collaboration: When used in group settings, problem-solving
fosters teamwork and communication skills. Students collaborate to
analyze, discuss, and solve issues, sharing diverse perspectives.
Prepares for Real-World Challenges: The problem-solving process
mirrors real-life challenges, where complex issues must be addressed,
and multiple approaches may be needed. This helps students build skills
that will be useful beyond the classroom.
Disdvantages
• Time-Consuming: Problem-solving can take a considerable amount of
time, especially when students are grappling with difficult texts or
writing tasks. This can be challenging in a limited classroom period.
Requires Strong Guidance: For students who are not experienced in
problem-solving techniques, guidance from the teacher is essential.
Without proper direction, students may struggle to break down
problems and reach effective solutions.
Risk of Overcomplicating Simple Problems: In an attempt to solve a
problem, students might overthink simple issues, leading to confusion
and frustration. Sometimes, simpler solutions may be overlooked in
favor of more complex analyses
Disadvantages
• Potential for Frustration: Problem-solving can be challenging,
particularly when students are working on difficult or dense material.
If they cannot solve the problem quickly, it may lead to frustration or
disengagement.
Dependence on Prior Knowledge: The method requires students to
have a solid foundation of knowledge to analyze problems effectively.
Without adequate background information, they may not be able to
generate solutions.
Conclusion
• The problem-solving method is a powerful approach in the English
and literature classroom because it engages students in active, critical
thinking and fosters deeper understanding. By guiding students
through a structured process of identifying and resolving issues in
texts or writing, educators can develop their students’ analytical,
writing, and communication skills. Though it may be time-consuming
and require careful guidance, the benefits of improving
comprehension, enhancing creativity, and developing independence
make it a valuable pedagogical strategy.
References
• Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2014). The Miniature Guide to Critical Thinking
Concepts and Tools. Foundation for Critical Thinking.
Johnson, D. W., & Johnson, F. P. (2009). Joining Together: Group
Theory and Group Skills. Pearson Education.
Harris, M. (2005). Reading and Writing in the Content Areas. Pearson.
McTighe, J., & Wiggins, G. (2013). Essential Questions: Opening
Doors to Student Understanding. ASCD