Creative Problem Solving Level 1

Life often involves the task of resolving problems—and learning how to do it creatively! Practical and fantastical, the exercises in this resource require drawing or writing solutions (or both). Useful for ages 4+, you can instead have solution conversations. Exercises include drawing ways to prevent problems; helping creatures survive different environments; and meeting alien needs. Along the way, students learn how to choose and explain the best tools for situations. Students also discover the power of imagination, as they are directed to pretend that they are a story character. Lessons also have children write to solve emergencies: select a super power that helps hikers when lost or caught in an avalanche; or quickly figure out what to do when a loose dog spoils a party. In City Challenge, a flood hits a city, and six exercises build on each other. Some problems may be scary, but are opportunities to discuss real responses. A Super Challenge section moves from 2D to 3D activities; drawing and building blocks, designing ball and mechanism contraptions (some household items required). No answer key is provided. If students can explain why their solutions would work—it's correct. Nonreproducible, and perforated, 212 pgs, pb. ~ Ruth