Learn Different Ways to Solve Problems

To become confident, competent arithmetic users, learners need to be comfortable using different methods to solve problems. You can use Math Skill Builders to help learn to:

Once learners have practiced solving problems with paper and pencil, mental arithmetic, by estimating the answers, or by using the calculator, they can compare the methods. Learners can compare time and accuracy using different methods, and discuss which method to use when. Learners can use combinations of methods and learn to:

Check estimation with the calculator.
Check the calculator with estimation.
Validate solutions to problems with estimation or with the calculator.
Do problems without relying on a calculator.
Select the appropriate computational method for any situation.

Comparing the time it takes to solve problems with and without the calculator.

In Practice, learners should first complete a set of problems by answering without using a calculator. Note the average time per problem in the Practice results. Then, they should go back to Practice, at the same operation and skill level, and answer all problems using the calculator. Note the average time needed to complete a problem. Compare average time per problem needed, using and not using a calculator. (Refer to 'Select the operation and skill level at any time' in Manage the Method of Progress Through Levels of Difficulty, to be able to do problems at the same skill level.)

Trying to 'beat the clock' in Practice, with and without the calculator.

Select Limit Time in Preferences. Learners should try to solve the problems in Practice, without the calculator, in the amount of time allowed. Then they should return to Practice, at the same operation, skill level, and time allowed, and solve the same number of problems, but this time use the calculator. Decide if it was it faster or easier to use the calculator. (Refer to 'Select the operation and skill level at any time' in Manage the Method of Progress Through Levels of Difficulty, to be able to do problems at the same skill level.)