Guess+and+Check

**Guess and Check**

**Content** Problem solving techniques for math instruction is taught through Guess and Check.

**Grade Level** Upper elementary through 12th grade can use problem solving strategies such as guess and check.

**Curriculum Standards** In a 7th grade math classroom, this strategy would address the following CSOs: M.O.7.4.1 select and apply an appropriate method to solve (including, but not limited to, formulas) justify the method and the reasonableness of the solution, given a real-world problem solving situation involving


 * perimeter
 * circumference
 * area
 * surface area of prisms (rectangular and triangular)
 * volume of prisms and cylinders
 * distance and temperature (Celsius, Fahrenheit)

M.O.CM.2.1 use a variety of problem solving strategies (e.g., draw a diagram, look for a pattern, work backwards) to solve real-world problems.

**Description of Practices**
 * Introduce the problem./Figure out what you need to find as the answer.
 * Guess an answer./Try the answer.
 * See if you need to try a new number or answer.
 * Check to see if the numbers work by plugging numbers back in to the equation or table. Show all work.

**Implementation Considerations** All settings could use this method. With a self-contained classroom or smaller setting students would get more individualized attention on the method being used. As a whole group instruction some students may not understand how to make an educated guess which could result in the student working too long on guessing and checking. The teacher may take longer to work around the classroom to make sure all students are using the method appropriately.

**Example** []

**Citation** Johanning, D. I. (2007). Is there something to be gained from guessing? middle school students' use of systematic guess and check. //School Science and Mathematics//, //107//(4), 123-134.