Problem Solving

This skill is about how individuals effectively solve problems, recognising that while knowledge and technical skills are vital, there are also transferable techniques between settings.

 Initially, individuals solve simple problems by following instructions, seeking support and sharing what the problem is, or finding information themselves.

Next, individuals explore complicated problems by creating multiple potential solutions, analysing them, using success criteria for evaluation, and bringing in extra research effectively.

Then, individuals investigate complex problems by exploring causation, recognising patterns and principles, thinking about parts of a system, and reasoning logically.

Finally, individuals tackle complex problems by creating and testing hypotheses, and then creating, implementing and refining strategic plans

Building the skill of problem solving

Every Monday, ideas are shared on the school’s Class Dojo story for how to develop the focus skill of the half term. Ideas to develop problem solving could include:

• Invent a game and explain the rules
• Simple science experiments. Can you build a baking soda volcano?
• Complete a jigsaw puzzle
• Create a mini scavenger hunt around your home.
• Draw a picture using only 3 colours.
• Role-Play Problem Scenarios such as being stuck on a desert island and what would you do?
• Hold a family cooking challenge. What meal can you make with only 4 ingredients?
• Use LEGO or any building blocks to build the tallest tower, a bridge that will hold a toy car
• Have a riddle of the day. What has keys but no lock? Create your own riddles too!
• Can you make a paper airplane and improve its design?
• Can you shop on a budget? Have £5 and see what you can buy to make something for dinner.
• Create patterns using beads, Lego or drawings
• Draw a simple map of your garden and house. Mark ‘treasure’ locations.
• Paper bridge challenge. Build a bridge between two chairs using on paper and tape. Test how much weight it can hold.
• Simple science experiments. Can you test which materials float or sink?
• Create an escape room at home. Hide clues, use simple codes and add challenges. Can you escape from the living room?
• Use cardboard tubes, boxes, books etc to create a marble run. Improve your run after testing it out.