Math Problem Solving Resources

Laura Candler’s Math Problem Solving page is where you’ll find great resources for teaching problem solving as well as a variety of math problem activity pages. Many of the items on this page are free and do not come with directions. For complete problem solving lessons, check out the Daily Math Puzzlers, a series of four leveled books that include information on how to teach problem solving as well as mixed-problem activity pages for students.

Free Daily Math Puzzler Sample Pages

Each page below is a free sample from one level of the Daily Math Puzzler program.

Daily Math Puzzlers Level A
Daily Math Puzzlers Level B Sample
Daily Math Puzzlers Level C
Daily Math Puzzlers Level D Sample

Links to Free Problem Solving StrategiesMusic-Mix-Math

Problem Solving

Free Problem Solving Assessments

Use the simple pretests in this assessment pack to learn how skilled your students are at solving problems and where to start them in the Daily Math Puzzler program. Even if you don’t use the Daily Math Puzzler program, you’ll gain valuable insights as to HOW your students attack word problems and solve them. Click here and request this free set of Problem Solving Assessments. After you submit your requests, go to you inbox and look for the email with the freebie.

Math Mindset Challenges: Editable Multi-step Word Problems

Math Mindset Challenges

Recharge & Write Problem Solving Strategy (Video Clip)

Recharge & Write is a terrific cooperative learning strategy that gets kids talking about math problems but holds them accountable for understanding how to solve each problem. I recorded a short video to explain how it works, and I provided even more detail my blog post, How to Recharge Mathematical Thinking.

Weekly Math Challenge Freebies

If you’re looking for the Weekly Math Challenge printables shown below, they’re free for my newsletter subscribers. To find them, sign up for Candler’s Classroom Connections and follow the links to the Best Freebies page. You can find many more problems like this in the Math Mindset Challenges collection!

Weekly Math Challenge 1
Weekly Math Challenge 2
Weekly Math Challenge #3
Weekly Math Challenge #4

Math Problem Solving: Mindsets Matter Webinar

If you missed the live webinar, you can watch a free replay here.

Math Problem Solving: Mindset Matters

Common Core Standards for Mathematical Practice

The Common Core State Standards include eight mathematical practices that should be included as a regular part of math instruction. I created the Standards for Mathematical Practice chart shown below to use as you plan instruction to ensure you are meeting these standards throughout the week.