People solve problems in different ways. Let’s examine a variety of possible approaches to the original Growing Dots task that may be similar to or different from your own.

Step 1: Consider alternative solution methods

As you view the document below, take a look at solutions 1 and 3 and consider these questions:

How are the solution methods similar?
How are they different?
How might either of these solution methods help students solve the More Growing Dots task?

You can view the solution methods below (or click the arrow to download a PDF version).

Step 2: Consider a mathematician’s perspective

This task analysis provides a mathematician’s perspective on the mathematics of the original Growing Dots task. You may find the mathematical ideas that are presented helpful as you watch the video in the next activity. You may also want to refer back to this analysis as you continue to explore the tasks and video throughout the module.

Advance the slideshow manually by clicking on each slide.