Rearranging Problem Statements

Problem statements
Identify/Generate the principle
Time: 15+ minutes

This exercise works best after students have already identified parts within problem statements that appear as standard paragraphs. It's a good review exercise to start off class.
 
1. Find two or three straightforward problem statements, in which each part is represented by one or two sentences. You can use problem statements from Sample Problem Statements, or, if you have time, it's probably better to write some problem statements related to your theme.

2. Make five or six copies of each problem statement. Cut up problem statements into their four separate parts. (Or just write each part on a separate index card.)

3. Mix up the parts of each statement.

4. In class, into groups of three. Tell them that each group will be receiving the scrambled pieces of several problem statements. Their mission is to put the pieces back into their paradigmatic order.

5. Distribute the problem statement pieces. Give students approximately 5 minutes per problem statement.

6. As a class, compare group results and decide on the proper order.