Future Problem Solving

Future Problem Solving*

Standards

Research: Student analyzes data gathered from primary and secondary sources in order to form solutions to a proposed problem.

Reading Analysis: Student responds to, examines, and critiques significant issues and events that will affect the future.

Receptive Language: Listening and Viewing: Student demonstrates, analyzes, evaluates, and reflects upon the skills and processes introduced through a variety of materials.

Assessment / Product or Culminating Activity

Culminating Activity:

Participate in State Bowl to qualify for International Competition

Assessment:

Students participate in the Six Step Method of Future Problem Solving addressing specific futuristic scenarios.

Five Problems: Each assessed several times by trained evaluators
Participate in group, individual, and community problem solving

Gifted Strands

Thinking Skills:

Critical thinking
Decision making
Problem solving
Logic

Communication:

Listening skills
Verbal and written skills
Non-verbal communication skills
Discussion skills

Life skills

Interpersonal:

Leadership
Conflict resolution
Negotiating, compromise,cooperation, teamwork, presentation of self

Creativity:

Fluency
Flexibility
Originality
Abstract expression

Problem solving

Activities

Research the topic

Gather information about the broad topic based on current information
Utilize a variety of sources (web sites, periodicals).

Step 1: Brainstorm Sub problems

Analyze the specific situation
List sub-problems related to situation.

Step 2: Identify an Underlying Problem

Select most vital problem

Step 3: Brainstorm Solutions

Generate a variety of solutions to solve Underlying Problem.

Step 4: Select Criteria

Brainstorm parameters to evaluate solutions

Select the five criteria that seem most appropriate

Step 5: Evaluate Solutions

Use criteria to evaluate the ten most promising solutions

Step 6: Describe the Ultimate Solution

Choose the ultimate solution
Substantiate and develop an in-depth action plan