2012 Volume 13 Number 2
Mathematical Problem Solving for Everyone:
A New Beginning
Jaguthsing Dindyal
Tay Eng Guan
Toh Tin Lam
Leong Yew Hoong
Quek Khiok Seng
National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Abstract: Mathematical problem solving has been at the core of the Singapore
mathematics curriculum framework since the 1990s. We report here the features of the
Mathematical Problem Solving for Everyone (M-ProSE) project which was carried
out in a Singapore school to realise the learning of mathematical problem solving and
as described by Pólya and Schoenfeld. A mathematics problem solving package
comprising “mathematics practical” lessons and assessment rubric was trialled in the
school for Grade 8 in 2009. Responses from three students show mixed perceptions to
the module, but an end-of-module assessment shows that the students were able to
present their solutions along Pólya’s four stages. We also describe teacher preparation
for teaching the module. After the trial period, the school adopted the module as part
of the curriculum and it is now a compulsory course for all Grade 8 students in that
school.
Key words: Problem solving; Mathematics curriculum; Practical worksheet;
Assessment rubric; Teacher development