Deducing Problems In A Math Congress

By participating in a math congress the student role becomes much more active as students take part in a congress where they can discover how other students solved the same problem and ask questions about understanding the various ways that a student can choose to arrive at a solution. A math congress demonstrates a growth mindset where dedication and hard work are depicted in the student's solutions. Students can greatly benefit from understanding that what they bring to the solution is valued and that the teacher does believe in them. 

One of the most important goals is feedback. Once a student can see and understand a problem then they can go further on their path of solving the problem. Often another student may explain to that student where they went wrong or help them to further understand the problem so it is easier to solve. The most important part about solving problems is taking what you already know and applying that information accordingly. Making connections is a crucial step in problem solving. It is important that as educators we provide students with rich problems to support their learning. 

Different groups of students approach problems in different ways and all of them can come to the same solution. In the case of Joel's Kitten Food Problem, some groups chose to focus on the dollar value or the can value, however way the students decided to approach the problem they are still able to come up with the right solution. 

Math congresses allow students to understand every solution and make connections between them. A math congress is student centered and students are able to find out what information is new to them and why they might be able to use one approach versus another approach at different times depending on the problem at hand. A math congress gives students ownership of their own work. Students work better when they know their work and method is valuable and when they have control or a choice. When students make sense of a problem they can solve it. Math congresses allow students to be valuable members of a group and take responsibility; both characteristics that are valuable to their futures.