problem solving worksheets for high school students

10 Problem-Solving Scenarios for High School Students

It is certainly common to come across difficult situations including forgetting an assignment at home or overusing your phone only to miss an important project deadline. We are always surrounded by little difficulties that might become bigger problems if not addressed appropriately.

Whether it is saving your friend from the addiction to social media platforms or communicating your personal boundaries to relatives, problem-solving skills are one of the important skills you need to acquire throughout the journey of life.

Do you think these skills are in-built with other high school students? Certainly not.

It takes innovative learning methodologies just like problem-solving scenarios that help you immerse in the subject matter with precision. With problem-solving scenarios, you come across a range of problems that help you build critical thinking skills, logical reasoning, and analytical techniques.

The article will take you through scenarios that are a combination of various problems that need to be addressed strategically and carefully. As you read ahead, make sure to brainstorm solutions and choose the best one that fits the scenario. 

Helpful scenarios to build a problem-solving attitude in high schoolers

Learning through scenarios helps students look at situations from a completely analytical perspective. Problem-solving scenarios offer a combination of various situations that test the thinking skills and growth mindset of high school students. The below-mentioned scenarios are perfect for implementing problem-solving skills simply by allowing open discussions and contributions by students.

1. Uninvited Guests

You have arranged a party at your home after successfully winning the competition at the Science Fair. You invite everyone involved in the project however, one of your friends brings his cousin’s brother along. However, you have limited soft drink cans considering the number of invited people. How would you manage this situation without making anyone feel left out?

2. Communication Issues

A new teacher has joined the high school to teach about environmental conservation. She often involves students in different agriculture activities and workshops. However, one of your friends, John, is not able to understand the subject matter. He is unable to communicate his doubts to the teachers. How would you motivate him to talk to the teacher without the fear of judgment?

3. Friendship or Personal Choice?

The history teacher announced an exciting assignment opportunity that helps you explore ancient civilizations. You and your friend are pretty interested in doing the project as a team. One of your other friends, Jason, wants to join the team with limited knowledge and interest in the topic. Would you respect the friendship or deny him so you can score better on the assignment?

4. Peer Pressure 

It is common for high schoolers to follow what their friends do. However, lately, your friends have discovered different ways of showing off their skills. While they do all the fun things, there are certain activities you are not interested in doing. It often puts you in trouble whether to go with friends or take a stand for what is right. Would you take the help of peer mentoring activities in school or try to initiate a direct conversation with them?

5. Team Building 

Mr. Jason, the science teacher, assigns different projects and forms teams with random classmates. There are 7 people in each team who need to work towards project completion. As the group starts working, you notice that some members do not contribute at all. How will you ensure that everyone participates and coordinates with the team members?

6. Conflict Resolution 

The drama club and the English club are famous clubs in the school. Both clubs organize various events for the students. This time, both clubs have a tiff because of the event venue. Both clubs need the same auditorium for the venue on the same date. How would you mediate to solve the issue and even make sure that club members are on good terms with each other? 

7. Stress Management 

Your school often conducts different activities or asks students stress survey questions to ensure their happiness and well-being. However, one of your friends always misses them. He gets frustrated and seems stressed throughout the day. What would you do to ensure that your friend gets his issue acknowledged by teachers?

8. Time Management 

Your friend is always enthusiastic about new competitions in high school. He is running here and there to enroll and get certificates. In this case, he often misses important lectures and activities in class. Moreover, his parents complain that he misses swimming class too. How would you explain to him the importance of prioritizing and setting goals to solve this issue?

9. Educational Resources 

You and your friends are avid readers and often take advice from books. While most must-read books for bibliophiles are read by you, it is important to now look for other books. However, you witness that the school library lacks other important books on philosophy and the non-fiction category. How would you escalate this issue to the higher authorities by addressing the needs of students?

10. Financial Planning

Finance is an important factor and that is why your parents help you plan your pocket money and budgeting. Off lately, they have stopped doing so considering that you can manage on your own. However, after a few months, you have started spending more on games and high-end school supplies. You realize that your spending habits are leading to loss of money and reduced savings. How shall you overcome this situation?

Wrapping Up 

Involving students in different learning practices and innovative ways inspires them to think out of the box and make use of imagination skills. With the usage of different problem-solving scenarios, high school students get an opportunity to delve into realistic examples and consequences of different incidents.

Such scenarios offer an excellent way to promote understanding, critical thinking skills and enhance creativity. Ensure to use different activities and games for creating a comprehensive learning environment.

Sananda Bhattacharya, Chief Editor of TheHighSchooler, is dedicated to enhancing operations and growth. With degrees in Literature and Asian Studies from Presidency University, Kolkata, she leverages her educational and innovative background to shape TheHighSchooler into a pivotal resource hub. Providing valuable insights, practical activities, and guidance on school life, graduation, scholarships, and more, Sananda’s leadership enriches the journey of high school students.

Explore a plethora of invaluable resources and insights tailored for high schoolers at TheHighSchooler, under the guidance of Sananda Bhattacharya’s expertise. You can follow her on Linkedin

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10 Problem Solving Activities for High School Students

Published on march 15, 2017 at 12:01 am by ethan jacobs in lists , news.

Why should we care about problem solving activities for high school students ?  What’s the fastest way to get to and from work? How can I complete a task more efficiently? What should I have for lunch today? No matter the size, scale, or ramifications, we all encounter scenarios every day that require the very best of our decision-making abilities. The approaches that we employ to solve these problems can be every bit as diverse as the problems themselves.

Sometimes we crowdsource, other times we decide using trial and error, and in a pinch, we solicit the unerring wisdom of Siri. What happens though, when there simply is no collection of experts to whom we can appeal and we’re devoid of the familiar technology that helps make our decisions for us? Computers do an excellent job of automating processes, but are incapable of the initial pattern recognition required to identify the most efficient solution available. What’s more, in a time crunch, trial and error won’t stand you in good stead; you’ll have to decide in an instant. This need for self-reliance in decision-making scenarios makes critical thinking, the ability to use facts, knowledge and data to successfully solve problems,​ absolutely indispensable. This is further reflected by the ​ recent trend​  of rapid growth in demand across industries that seek talent with considerable problem-solving abilities, as well as the increased use of problem solving activities ​in the workplace​ to continue employee development.

Marijus Auruskevicius/Shutterstock.com

In order to best set the next generation up for success in this regard, it’s critical to begin fostering these skills from an early age. Beginning in high school or earlier, problem solving enables students to apply what they’ve learned as opposed to merely recalling information that they have been spoonfed, equipping them with an arsenal of tools and approaches to tackle issues that may have previously seemed uni-dimensional. This ability, in turn, transforms the rigors of academic learning into that something that’s applicable at a professional level, simultaneously silencing the familiar “when will I ever use this?” chorus to which educators have become so accustomed. Whether carried out in individual or group settings, problem solving activities help students develop critical skills such as leadership, teamwork, creativity, persistence, and incremental improvement through repetition.

And if you are looking for more brain thinking activities we have a similar read –  10 Best Team Building Problem Solving Activities .

In addition to discovering new, useful techniques with which to tackle problems, students that are immersed in problem solving endeavors learn effective ways to present their findings once all is said and done, providing them with valuable written and oral skills in addition to those included in the aforementioned list. In short, when teachers​ present students with problems and task them with finding a solution, teachers can ensure that their students are prepared for challenges that they will encounter after graduation. We searched the web looking for the best problem solving games, and took the  recommendations from various sources, such as Concordia , and  Stanford  to name a few. Here is a list of 10 problem solving activities for high school students to help them sharpen their skills.

10. Protto: Problem Lotto

Played individually, or with partners, this competitive game involves creative thinking and teaches students that problems often have more than one solution, and that sometimes one solution can be used for more multiple problems.

Overview: Students divide one sheet of paper into four quadrants by drawing one vertical and horizontal line. Each quadrant represents a problem that the students have selected from a designated list of problems. The teacher may randomly draw cards or have students draw blindly from a set of cards that have solutions printed on them. If a solution fits a problem listed in one of the students’ quadrants, they may write the solution in that quadrant. If the solution fits for more than one problem quadrant, the student may write it in each quadrant where it applies. The first student to fill out all four quadrants and shout ‘Protto!’ is the winner. The teacher serves as the games judge. And now, let’s see what else we have in our list of problem solving activities for high school students.

9.​ ​Pulling Pockets

The next one in our list of problem solving activities for high school students is played with an entire class divided into teams of equal size, this activity targets students’ ability to think quickly, cooperate, and collaborate to come up with as lengthy a list as possible. Using “pockets” (anything that can be closed, such as a bag, jar, envelope, etc.) that contain problem scenarios within them (on a slip of paper or card), teams compete by taking turns providing viable solutions to the problem contained in the pocket over a 60-second span. For example, if a pocket’s problem is “I forgot my homework,” each team, starting with the team that selected the pocket, will provide a solution to the forgotten homework problem. A panel of independent judges will decide whether a proposed solution is viable. The round ends when the 60 seconds ends or when no more new solutions can be produced.

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8. Solution Bee

Played with an entire class divided into teams, this game is similar to a spelling bee with respect to its round-by-round guessing elements, and encourages students to broaden their innovative thinking capabilities. Although it certainly has elements of luck, this activity also relies heavily on creativity. One at a time, students blindly select one card from a fanned deck that the teacher is holding. On the card that the student picks will be a problem, which the teacher will read aloud, as well as a solution to that problem, which is meant to be kept secret. The competing teams will take turns guessing the ‘best’ solution to the problem read by the teacher until one side guesses the correct answer and earns a point for their team. The process is then repeated with another student selecting a new card. A follow-up discussion can be had among the students after each round about whether the written solution actually represents the best method of solving the problem.

7.​ ​Brainstorm Bonanza

This problem-solving activity that ranks 7th in our list of problem solving activities for high school students is applicable across all academic disciplines and is a great way to help students further develop their understanding of a particular topic. For example, if a literature class is discussing a book, which was not a resounding success, or was poorly-received by readers, students may brainstorm ways that the author could have created a more effective piece. The brainstorming process can take place individually or in groups, using paper or a whiteboard.

Copyright: jezper / 123RF Stock Photo

6. Group Therapy

A class can collaborate to design and decorate a locked box with a slot cut into it at the top. Into this box, students can anonymously jot down and submit problems that they may be having in their lives, be they in your class, another class, or entirely outside of school that they are having trouble solving on their own. Every now and again, a student or teacher can draw a problem slip from the box, read it to the class, and solicit suggestions from everyone. The entire class can brainstorm solutions and discuss their merit as a group.

5. Survivor Scenarios

Create an imagined circumstance that involves students working together in order to survive. One such scenario might involve being trapped in a remote area, such as a mountain range, with limited supplies and no way of communicating with the outside world. Students must prioritize the items that they have at their disposal, and discuss how they will use one another’s strengths and weaknesses to gather necessary resources and establish lodging to survive an indefinite period of isolation until help is able to arrive and rescue them. More ideas for problem solving activities for high school students are coming, just click on Next.

YUTTANA HONGTANSAWAT/Shutterstock.com

4. Moral Dilemma

We are continuing with the number 4 in our list of problem solving activities for high school students – brainstorm a number of issues with potential moral grey areas that your students might face on a day-to-day basis, jot them down and place them in some kind of container. Draw a scenario from time to time and present the issue to the students to promote brainstorming of potential solutions and discussion of solution merits. One such dilemma might involve life-saving: Two people are trapped in a car hanging on the edge of a cliff. Pulling one person from the car will cause a weight imbalance that causes the car to fall off of the edge of the cliff. You must save one person, or the car will fall and both will die. Who will you save?

Stokkete/Shutterstock.com

We are continuing our list of problem solving activities for high school students with “Amoeba” that is a straightforward activity that can serve as a trust exercise, warm-up, or group problem-solving activity. It involves movement, and is a great way of breaking the ice. Using a large rope or some form of webbing, create a loop and place it on the floor. Have all students step into the enclosed loop and pick it up at waist level so that it encloses everyone. Tell students that they may not drop the rope and must collectively move to a given point in the room. The smaller or tighter the loop, the more difficult the activity becomes, and the more teamwork is required. Obstacles can be added at the teacher’s discretion to make the activity particularly difficult. Once the activity has concluded, debriefing discussions about working as a team, considering the needs of others, and effectively communicating can be held.

2. ​ Quarto

This two-player logic game ranks second in our list of problem solving activities for high school students. It closely-resembles Connect Four, and uses a 4×4 board and 16 different pieces with no two pieces that are exactly alike. The pieces are either dark, light, tall, short, square, rounded, hollow, or solid. The objective of the game is to form a line in which all pieces have something in common (i.e. a line of all dark pieces, a line of all short pieces, etc.). The trick to this game is that there is a pick your poison element involved in that a player’s opponent has to pick the piece that the player must use on each turn, rather than the player getting to choose their own piece.

Ballda/Shutterstock.com

1. What can you do with ______?

Bring in a collection of everyday household items and select one to present to the class. Allow students to examine the item closely and determine the various functions that the item could perform, encouraging innovation, creativity and in-class discussion. Students may be given a defined period of time in which to brainstorm and write down the uses that they have thought of. For example, if a crate is brought in, students might suggest functions such as: ​carrying vessel; flower bed/ pot; chair/ seating device; book rack, etc. Points may be awarded for the most creative answers.

Kellis/Shutterstock.com

 The importance of using critical thinking skills on a day-to-day basis will only continue to grow over time.  Trying out these problem solving activities for high school students in your next class is a sure-fire way to sharpen your students’ skills in a way that’s sure to keep everyone engaged.

Slideshow List XFinance Survivor Scenarios Problem Lotto group activity Quarto critical thinking game amoeba problem solving activity activities to improve creativity Protto critical thinking exercise What can you do with this activity Group Therapy brainstorming exercise activities to improve teamwork skills Solution Bee critical thinking exercise Pulling Pockets problem solving activity Moral Dilemma critical thinking exercises Brainstorm Bonanza critical thinking activity 10 Best Team Building Problem Solving Activities brainstorming activities for high school students problem solving activities for high school students critical thinking exercises for high school students 10 Problem Solving Activities for High School Students activities to improve persistence in high school students Show more... Show less

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Problem-Solving Activities for High School Students

Table of contents:.

Problem-solving activities are a great way to engage high school students in critical thinking. These activities can range from simple puzzles and games to complex group projects and challenges. They help students develop important skills such as communication, creativity, and decision-making. By participating in problem-solving activities, high school students can learn to approach problems in a structured and systematic way and to work effectively with others to find solutions.

The Importance of Problem-Solving Activities for High School Students

Problem-solving is a crucial skill for high school students to develop because it prepares them for the challenges they will face in their personal and professional lives. By engaging kids in problem-solving activities as early as possible, they learn to approach problems in a structured and systematic way and to work effectively with others to find solutions.

The benefits of problem-solving activities for high school students are numerous. These activities help students develop critical thinking skills , which are essential for making informed decisions and solving complex problems. Group problem-solving activities also promote engagement and collaboration, as students work together to find solutions to challenges. By participating in problem-solving activities, high school students can improve their decision-making abilities and become more confident and independent thinkers.

Ideas for Problem-Solving Activities

Here is a list of different types of problem-solving activities that teachers and schools can use to promote problem-solving, collaboration, creative and critical thinking, decision-making, and communication skills among students:

• Escape room puzzle challenges: These challenges involve students working together to solve a series of puzzles in order to “escape” from a simulated scenario.
• Brainstorming sessions: In these sessions, students work together to generate ideas and solutions to a given problem.
• Debates: Debates involve students arguing for or against a given topic. This activity promotes communication and decision-making.
• Role-play simulations: In these simulations, students take on different roles and work together to solve a simulated problem.
• Creative problem-solving tasks: These tasks involve students using their creativity to find solutions to problems.
• Collaborative project-based learning: In this approach, students work together on a project that involves solving a complex problem.

Another way to develop problem-solving skills is by using technology . However, it remains important to be aware of the negative influences of technology on child development. Therefore, it’s crucial to set some rules for technology at home . You can also use a parental control app like Safes to protect your child from online harm. With features like app monitoring and web filter, you can monitor their app and internet usage. You can download Safes for iOS , Android , Windows , and MacOS .

Tips for Teachers and Schools

Here are some tips on how teachers and schools can use problem-solving activities effectively to promote high school students’ problem-solving skills:

• Encourage teamwork: Problem-solving activities are most effective when students work together to find solutions. Teachers can encourage collaboration by assigning students to work in groups and by providing opportunities for students to share their ideas and solutions with one another.
• Offer feedback and encouragement: Teachers can help students develop their problem-solving skills by providing feedback on their performance and by offering encouragement and support. This can help students feel more confident in their abilities and more motivated to continue improving.
• Use real-world problems and scenarios: Problem-solving activities are most engaging when they involve real-world problems and scenarios that students can relate to. Teachers can incorporate current events, local issues, or other relevant topics into their problem-solving activities to make them more meaningful and engaging for students.
• Incorporate a variety of activities to keep students engaged: To keep students engaged and motivated, teachers can incorporate a variety of different problem-solving activities into their lesson plans. This can include puzzles, games, debates, simulations, case studies, and more.

By following these tips, teachers and schools can use problem-solving activities effectively to promote high school students’ problem-solving skills. If you want to use technology but are wary of the negative effects, you can use Safes School . With the great collection of features, you can monitor what your students are doing online and even block inappropriate content.

In summary, problem-solving skills are crucial for high school students to develop as they prepare for academic and professional success. By engaging in problem-solving activities students can improve their critical thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Teachers and schools can effectively promote problem-solving skills among their students by incorporating these activities into their curriculum. By doing so, they can help prepare their students for the challenges they will face in college and in the workforce.

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Problem-solving skills are necessary in all areas of life, and classroom problem solving activities can be a great way to get students prepped and ready to solve real problems in real life scenarios. Whether in school, work or in their social relationships, the ability to critically analyze a problem, map out all its elements and then prepare a workable solution is one of the most valuable skills one can acquire in life.

Educating your students about problem solving skills from an early age in school can be facilitated through classroom problem solving activities. Such endeavors encourage cognitive as well as social development, and can equip students with the tools they’ll need to address and solve problems throughout the rest of their lives. Here are five classroom problem solving activities your students are sure to benefit from as well as enjoy doing:

1. Brainstorm bonanza

Having your students create lists related to whatever you are currently studying can be a great way to help them to enrich their understanding of a topic while learning to problem-solve. For example, if you are studying a historical, current or fictional event that did not turn out favorably, have your students brainstorm ways that the protagonist or participants could have created a different, more positive outcome. They can brainstorm on paper individually or on a chalkboard or white board in front of the class.

2. Problem-solving as a group

Have your students create and decorate a medium-sized box with a slot in the top. Label the box “The Problem-Solving Box.” Invite students to anonymously write down and submit any problem or issue they might be having at school or at home, ones that they can’t seem to figure out on their own. Once or twice a week, have a student draw one of the items from the box and read it aloud. Then have the class as a group figure out the ideal way the student can address the issue and hopefully solve it.

3. Clue me in

This fun detective game encourages problem-solving, critical thinking and cognitive development. Collect a number of items that are associated with a specific profession, social trend, place, public figure, historical event, animal, etc. Assemble actual items (or pictures of items) that are commonly associated with the target answer. Place them all in a bag (five-10 clues should be sufficient.) Then have a student reach into the bag and one by one pull out clues. Choose a minimum number of clues they must draw out before making their first guess (two- three). After this, the student must venture a guess after each clue pulled until they guess correctly. See how quickly the student is able to solve the riddle.

4. Survivor scenarios

Create a pretend scenario for students that requires them to think creatively to make it through. An example might be getting stranded on an island, knowing that help will not arrive for three days. The group has a limited amount of food and water and must create shelter from items around the island. Encourage working together as a group and hearing out every child that has an idea about how to make it through the three days as safely and comfortably as possible.

5. Moral dilemma

Create a number of possible moral dilemmas your students might encounter in life, write them down, and place each item folded up in a bowl or bag. Some of the items might include things like, “I saw a good friend of mine shoplifting. What should I do?” or “The cashier gave me an extra $1.50 in change after I bought candy at the store. What should I do?” Have each student draw an item from the bag one by one, read it aloud, then tell the class their answer on the spot as to how they would handle the situation.

Classroom problem solving activities need not be dull and routine. Ideally, the problem solving activities you give your students will engage their senses and be genuinely fun to do. The activities and lessons learned will leave an impression on each child, increasing the likelihood that they will take the lesson forward into their everyday lives.

You may also like to read

• Classroom Activities for Introverted Students
• Activities for Teaching Tolerance in the Classroom
• 5 Problem-Solving Activities for Elementary Classrooms
• 10 Ways to Motivate Students Outside the Classroom
• Motivating Introverted Students to Excel in the Classroom
• How to Engage Gifted and Talented Students in the Classroom

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• Problem Solving

Lesson Problem Solving

Grade Level: 8 (6-8)

(two 40-minute class periods)

Lesson Dependency: The Energy Problem

Subject Areas: Physical Science, Science and Technology

• Print lesson and its associated curriculum

Curriculum in this Unit Units serve as guides to a particular content or subject area. Nested under units are lessons (in purple) and hands-on activities (in blue). Note that not all lessons and activities will exist under a unit, and instead may exist as "standalone" curriculum.

• Energy Forms and States Demonstrations
• Energy Conversions
• Watt Meters to Measure Energy Consumption
• Household Energy Audit
• Light vs. Heat Bulbs
• Efficiency of an Electromechanical System
• Efficiency of a Water Heating System
• Solving Energy Problems
• Energy Projects

TE Newsletter

Engineering connection, learning objectives, worksheets and attachments, more curriculum like this, introduction/motivation, associated activities, user comments & tips.

Scientists, engineers and ordinary people use problem solving each day to work out solutions to various problems. Using a systematic and iterative procedure to solve a problem is efficient and provides a logical flow of knowledge and progress.

• Students demonstrate an understanding of the Technological Method of Problem Solving.
• Students are able to apply the Technological Method of Problem Solving to a real-life problem.

Educational Standards Each TeachEngineering lesson or activity is correlated to one or more K-12 science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) educational standards. All 100,000+ K-12 STEM standards covered in TeachEngineering are collected, maintained and packaged by the Achievement Standards Network (ASN) , a project of D2L (www.achievementstandards.org). In the ASN, standards are hierarchically structured: first by source; e.g. , by state; within source by type; e.g. , science or mathematics; within type by subtype, then by grade, etc .

Ngss: next generation science standards - science.

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International Technology and Engineering Educators Association - Technology

State standards, national science education standards - science.

Scientists, engineers, and ordinary people use problem solving each day to work out solutions to various problems. Using a systematic and iterative procedure to solve a problem is efficient and provides a logical flow of knowledge and progress.

In this unit, we use what is called "The Technological Method of Problem Solving." This is a seven-step procedure that is highly iterative—you may go back and forth among the listed steps, and may not always follow them in order. Remember that in most engineering projects, more than one good answer exists. The goal is to get to the best solution for a given problem. Following the lesson conduct the associated activities Egg Drop and Solving Energy Problems for students to employ problem solving methods and techniques. 

Lesson Background and Concepts for Teachers

The overall concept that is important in this lesson is: Using a standard method or procedure to solve problems makes the process easier and more effective.

The specific process of problem solving used in this unit was adapted from an eighth-grade technology textbook written for New York State standard technology curriculum. The process is shown in Figure 1, with details included below. The spiral shape shows that this is an iterative, not linear, process. The process can skip ahead (for example, build a model early in the process to test a proof of concept) and go backwards (learn more about the problem or potential solutions if early ideas do not work well).

This process provides a reference that can be reiterated throughout the unit as students learn new material or ideas that are relevant to the completion of their unit projects.

Brainstorming about what we know about a problem or project and what we need to find out to move forward in a project is often a good starting point when faced with a new problem. This type of questioning provides a basis and relevance that is useful in other energy science and technology units. In this unit, the general problem that is addressed is the fact that Americans use a lot of energy, with the consequences that we have a dwindling supply of fossil fuels, and we are emitting a lot of carbon dioxide and other air pollutants. The specific project that students are assigned to address is an aspect of this problem that requires them to identify an action they can take in their own live to reduce their overall energy (or fossil fuel) consumption.

The Seven Steps of Problem Solving

1.  Identify the problem

Clearly state the problem. (Short, sweet and to the point. This is the "big picture" problem, not the specific project you have been assigned.)

2.  Establish what you want to achieve

• Completion of a specific project that will help to solve the overall problem.
• In one sentence answer the following question: How will I know I've completed this project?
• List criteria and constraints: Criteria are things you want the solution to have. Constraints are limitations, sometimes called specifications, or restrictions that should be part of the solution. They could be the type of materials, the size or weight the solution must meet, the specific tools or machines you have available, time you have to complete the task and cost of construction or materials.

3.  Gather information and research

• Research is sometimes needed both to better understand the problem itself as well as possible solutions.
• Don't reinvent the wheel – looking at other solutions can lead to better solutions.
• Use past experiences.

4.  Brainstorm possible solutions

List and/or sketch (as appropriate) as many solutions as you can think of.

5.  Choose the best solution

Evaluate solution by: 1) Comparing possible solution against constraints and criteria 2) Making trade-offs to identify "best."

6.  Implement the solution

• Develop plans that include (as required): drawings with measurements, details of construction, construction procedure.
• Define tasks and resources necessary for implementation.
• Implement actual plan as appropriate for your particular project.

7.  Test and evaluate the solution

• Compare the solution against the criteria and constraints.
• Define how you might modify the solution for different or better results.
• Egg Drop - Use this demonstration or activity to introduce and use the problem solving method. Encourages creative design.
• Solving Energy Problems - Unit project is assigned and students begin with problem solving techniques to begin to address project. Mostly they learn that they do not know enough yet to solve the problem.
• Energy Projects - Students use what they learned about energy systems to create a project related to identifying and carrying out a personal change to reduce energy consumption.

The results of the problem solving activity provide a basis for the entire semester project. Collect and review the worksheets to make sure that students are started on the right track.

Learn the basics of the analysis of forces engineers perform at the truss joints to calculate the strength of a truss bridge known as the “method of joints.” Find the tensions and compressions to solve systems of linear equations where the size depends on the number of elements and nodes in the trus...

Through role playing and problem solving, this lesson sets the stage for a friendly competition between groups to design and build a shielding device to protect humans traveling in space. The instructor asks students—how might we design radiation shielding for space travel?

A process for technical problem solving is introduced and applied to a fun demonstration. Given the success with the demo, the iterative nature of the process can be illustrated.

The culminating energy project is introduced and the technical problem solving process is applied to get students started on the project. By the end of the class, students should have a good perspective on what they have already learned and what they still need to learn to complete the project.

Hacker, M, Barden B., Living with Technology , 2nd edition. Albany NY: Delmar Publishers, 1993.

Other Related Information

This lesson was originally published by the Clarkson University K-12 Project Based Learning Partnership Program and may be accessed at http://internal.clarkson.edu/highschool/k12/project/energysystems.html.

Contributors

Supporting program, acknowledgements.

This lesson was developed under National Science Foundation grants no. DUE 0428127 and DGE 0338216. However, these contents do not necessarily represent the policies of the National Science Foundation, and you should not assume endorsement by the federal government.

Last modified: August 16, 2023

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Engaging activities for high school students.

Student engagement strategies and active learning are key to learners bringing their best selves to the classroom. It’s important to use diverse fun activities in your lesson plan to maintain active learning. We’re here to help you make sure you don’t run out of ideas. Check out our engaging activities for high school students:

Here are 5 icebreakers to start the lesson

Have a daily riddle that the class solves before the lesson starts. They can break into small groups to brainstorm or call out answers for the whiteboard. Check out a collated list here to help you with riddle ideas.

Foster the habit of writing by giving a visual stimulus, such as an interesting photo, and asking your students to write something about it. Use this image generator to inspire the entire class and give them specific parameters about what you want to explore. Do this every day to develop their writing skills.

3. Discussion

Add all the questions you want to cover with your students to this editable spin wheel and give it a spin to start the class discussion.

4. Flash fiction

Flash fiction is about broad storytelling. Give your students a challenge to write a 6-word story. They can use any topic but stick to the parameters to introduce an idea, plot, and character. There are some fantastic examples here to get those creative juices flowing.

5. Human knot

This is a physical and fun activity to develop problem-solving skills. Ask the students to stand in a circle and join hands with two random people in the circle. This creates a human knot, and the goal is to untangle it. Make it competitive with larger groups by dividing students into smaller groups or pairs and seeing who can get untangled the fastest using those critical thinking skills!

10 Classroom activities to engage students

Now that everyone has warmed up review the below teaching strategies to spice up some learning activities with these ideas.

1. Host a Jeopardy quiz!

If you’re a fan of the tv show then put that fandom to good use and host a quiz on the topic you’re studying. This activity is ideal for when high school students need to get ready for a big test. Studies have shown that students that are quizzed are more successful. They can revise with index cards so they are really familiar with the topic beforehand. Divide the class up into two teams and draw a Jeopardy-style game on the board with titles based on the topics that will be covered in the test and quiz. Just like in the television show, each category should have points for each level of question. Keep it simple with 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25-point question levels. Give each team a buzzer from a board game or a bell for answering. The teams should consult with each other before buzzing in with an answer.

2. Play Guess Who

Learning who is who from history can get overwhelming so use this teaching strategy to help. Put those problem-solving skills to good use in history class (or others!). Describe a time, place, or person from history with only three clues. The entire class has to try to figure out who or what you are referring to, then race to the whiteboard to write the answer. The students can use their history books or clues around the room if they need to.

3. Journalling

Develop creative writing skills by asking each student to write a journal entry from someone else’s perspective. There are many famous diarists who provide key insight into life through history. You could allocate a different diary entry for each student and then ask them to read it in front of the class. For example, if studying the civil war you could allocate students to write as if they were soldiers, civilians, politicians, etc.

4. Entry tickets …and exit tickets

Put a stack of index cards next to your classroom door and write a question on the board. When your students come into class, hand out index cards, write down an answer to the question and hand it in —as their “entry ticket” to class.

The question should be something related to the day’s lesson, like “after last night’s homework assignment, what do you think about X?” or “after studying the material for today’s class, what are some areas you still need clarification on?”

Not only does this activity get your students engaged and interacting from the minute they walk into the classroom, but it also gives you valuable insights you can use to guide the day’s lesson plan.

When your students are getting ready to leave for the day, have them do the same thing—just with exit tickets (use Kami’s templates).

The same concept applies. Ask them a question about the day’s lesson, any questions they might have, or overall feedback—then collect their ticket before they head home. Reviewing their exit tickets will help you figure out where to adjust your lesson plan for the following day.

5. Brainstorming

Group brainstorming sessions are a great way to bring your students together to engage with whatever they’re learning. Instead of thinking about the topic alone at their desk, they get to expand their ideas with other students in small groups, which will help them be more engaged and gain a new perspective on the lesson. This is a fun way to develop helpful skills for high school students, especially around class discussion. Use Kami’s brainstorming worksheets for this activity idea.

6. Debate-style activity

Most students will have a view of what you’re learning. Use this to your advantage and create a school activity of debating the merits or detractions of whatever you are learning about. This is a good way to engage critical thinking skills as the best debaters will anticipate what the other person might say and be prepared. Get them to write down their main points on pieces of paper ahead so they can practice and be prepared for the debate. This can be done in front of the whole class and you can change the debaters each week.

7. Thumbs up / thumbs down

Thumbs up / thumbs down is a hands-on fun way to monitor if your students are following a story. Tell students to put their thumbs up if they agree with a statement or to put their thumbs down if they disagree. When students have a low energy level (maybe right after lunch?) Stand Up/Sit Down may be a better alternative.

8. Create a video lesson plan

Social media is a part of students’ lives, and those skills in making videos can be really helpful. Flip the tables and ask the students to put together a lesson on the specific topic. Ask the students to put together a video, and perhaps instigate a challenge to include certain vocabulary words you’re written on the whiteboard. This is a fun hands-on activity that could produce some great learning resources.

9. Think pair share

Think pair share can be used for a variety of topics; math problems, science processes, and reading. If you ask an open-ended question ask the students to think about it, then put them into small groups and let them discuss. Then ask all the students to contribute to the classroom discussion and share their thoughts in front of the class.

10. Roll the dice

High school students really respond to their learning when they feel engaged and part of it. Why not write down all the activities that you might have planned and number them? Then ask a student to roll the dice. Whatever number they roll is the activity you do for that lesson. You provide students with some potential impact on how they learn.

Student engagement strategies are a fun way to get the students learning and keep them engaged as their attention span might wane through the day (as might yours). It’s great to have lots of varied ways to engage the brain, body, and spirit. Please let us know on socials how you get on!

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Guiding Students to Be Independent Problem-Solvers in STEM Classrooms

Teaching high school students how to plan to solve a problem in science, technology, engineering, and math is a crucial step.

Teaching students to become independent problem-solvers can be a challenging task, especially with virtual teaching during the pandemic. For some students, solving problems is not intuitive, and they need to learn how to think about solving problems from a general perspective. As experts, teachers often do not realize that there are implicit skills and ways of thinking that may not be obvious or known to our students.

5 Strategies to Explicitly Model and Teach Problem-Solving Skills

1. Model hidden thinking involved in solving a problem. When solving a problem, I talk about every aspect of what I am doing out loud. In fact, I over-talk, providing reasoning for every step. For example, when solving a dimensional-analysis problem, I will include descriptions like, “OK, I am going to look for any numbers that I can cancel. I know I can cancel or reduce if I see a number in the numerator and another number in the denominator that have a common factor.”

I will even include moments of vulnerability and model the fact that I don’t always know what to do, but I will discuss my options and my decision process. I sometimes intentionally make mistakes and then use methods to check my work to correct my errors. It’s essential that we explicitly show students this internal dialogue to model problem-solving.

2. Facilitate student talk during problem-solving. I do my best to never solve problems for students, even if they ask me. This includes whole-class lessons and working with students in small groups or individually. Using the Socratic method, I ask many questions of the students. The questions can be as simple as “What do we do next?” or “What are options of what we can do?”

Once during a classroom observation, I was told that in a span of 10 minutes, I asked more than 72 questions. This models the questions that the students can use in self-talk to guide them in the problem-solving process. After the first test, many students say that they could hear my voice asking them the same questions over and over, but what they’re really learning are advanced problem-solving skills they can extend to future contexts.

We can also provide deeper understanding with questions such as “Why do we do that?” These provide reasoning and value to the actions of each step in the problem-solving process, further solidifying the students’ understanding of the concepts and skills.

3. Include discussion for planning for each problem. Teachers instinctively plan problems. Students, as novice learners, often do not know how to plan a problem. They look at a problem, see it as foreign, and don’t know where to begin. They give up.

Research shows that planning how to solve the problem is an essential step for novice learners. Provide a structure or protocol for students. It can include the following: identify and write the data with units for a problem, identify equations to be used, identify and write what they’re trying to solve for, draw a relevant vector diagram, and brainstorm possible steps.

4. Emphasize the process, not final answers. Often, when checking individual work, we ask for the final answers. But what if instead of asking who has the answer, we ask who has the method to solve it? When students ask for correct answers, it’s natural to provide an immediate response. Instead, we should reply with guiding questions to facilitate the process of their solving the problems for themselves.

Often, I don’t even calculate the answer in the final step and ask if we all agree on the steps. The conversation is especially valuable when different methods are volunteered, and we can analyze the advantages of each. I want the students to check our work and not look at a simple result at the end of the problem to confirm their work. This shifts students’ attention to look at the details of the steps and not glance at the end of the work for the final answer. Further, grading can include points for steps and not the final solution.

5. Teach explicitly problem solving. After solving problems, students can create their own problem-solving strategy that they write on a note card. Collect responses from students and create a class protocol that you post on your learning management system or in your physical classroom space. Scaffold further with a two-column approach. In the left column, students show the work, and in the right column, they explain and justify what they did and why. The act of adding a justification will make students think about their actions. This will improve the connection between conceptual ideas and the problem-solving itself.

These are only a few strategies to get your students intentionally thinking about problem-solving from a general perspective beyond focusing on specific problems and memorizing steps. There are many ways to model and teach the skill of problem-solving that encourage them to think about the process explicitly.

Engaging Problem Solving Activities For High School Students

In today’s world, strong problem solving skills are more important than ever before. Employers highly value candidates who can think critically and creatively to overcome challenges. If you’re looking for ways to sharpen your high school student’s problem solving abilities, you’ve come to the right place.

Here’s a quick overview of the top problem solving activities we’ll cover in this guide: group challenges like escape rooms, individual logic puzzles and riddles, project-based learning through coding and engineering tasks, and conversational problem solving through Socratic seminars.

Group Challenges and Escape Rooms

Engaging high school students in problem-solving activities is crucial for their cognitive development and critical thinking skills. One popular and effective approach is through group challenges and escape rooms.

These activities not only promote teamwork and collaboration but also provide an exciting and immersive learning experience.

What Are Escape Rooms and Why Are They Effective?

Escape rooms are physical adventure games where participants are “locked” in a room and must solve puzzles and find clues to escape within a set time limit. These rooms are designed to challenge participants’ problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, and decision-making skills.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by NoWayOut Premium Escape Rooms (@nowayout_dubai)

The immersive nature of escape rooms creates an exciting and high-stakes environment that motivates students to think creatively and work together as a team.

Research has shown that escape rooms are highly effective in improving students’ problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

According to a study from BMC Medical Education , escape rooms improve student engagement and learning. This activity can increase motivation and enhance teamwork skills.

The challenging and interactive nature of escape rooms makes them a valuable tool for engaging high school students in problem-solving activities.

Tips for Creating Your Own Escape Room

If you want to create your own escape room for high school students, here are some tips to make it a memorable and effective experience:

• Theme and Storyline: Choose an engaging theme or storyline that will capture the students’ interest and make the experience more immersive.
• Puzzles and Challenges: Design a variety of puzzles and challenges that require critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork to solve.
• Time Limit: Set a reasonable time limit to create a sense of urgency and keep the students engaged throughout the activity.
• Feedback and Reflection: Provide feedback and encourage students to reflect on their problem-solving strategies and teamwork skills after completing the escape room.

Other Group Challenges and Problem Solving Activities

In addition to escape rooms, there are various other group challenges and problem-solving activities that can be implemented in high school settings . These activities can range from outdoor team-building exercises to classroom-based problem-solving tasks.

Outdoor activities such as scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, and ropes courses can foster teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Classroom-based activities like brainstorming sessions, case studies, and simulation games can also provide opportunities for students to think critically and solve complex problems.

It is important for educators to select activities that align with the learning objectives and interests of their students. By incorporating these engaging group challenges and problem-solving activities into high school curricula, educators can empower their students to develop essential skills that will benefit them in their academic and professional lives.

Individual Logic Puzzles and Riddles

Benefits of logic puzzles.

Logic puzzles are a great way to engage high school students in problem-solving activities. These puzzles require students to think critically, analyze information, and use deductive reasoning to find solutions.

They help develop cognitive skills such as logical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. By solving these puzzles individually, students also learn to work independently and trust their own reasoning abilities.

According to Psychology Today , logic puzzles can improve memory, enhance problem-solving skills, and boost overall brain health. They provide mental stimulation and challenge students to think outside the box.

Moreover, logic puzzles are a fun and engaging way to learn, making the learning process enjoyable and captivating for high school students.

Examples of Engaging Logic Puzzles

There are various types of logic puzzles and riddles that high school students can enjoy. Here are a few examples:

• Grid-based puzzles: These puzzles require students to fill in a grid by using clues to determine the correct arrangement of elements. Sudoku is a popular example of a grid-based logic puzzle.
• Number series puzzles: In these puzzles, students need to find the missing number or the pattern in a given series of numbers. This helps develop numerical reasoning and pattern recognition skills.
• Mystery riddles: These riddles present a scenario or a problem that students need to solve by using logic and deduction. They often involve a crime or a mysterious situation that requires careful analysis to find the solution.

These examples are just a starting point, and there are countless logic puzzles and riddles available online or in puzzle books that can keep high school students engaged and challenged.

Tips for Using Riddles and Brain Teasers

When using riddles and brain teasers as problem-solving activities, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

• Start with easier puzzles: Begin with puzzles that are relatively easy to solve, and gradually increase the difficulty level. This allows students to build confidence and develop their problem-solving skills.
• Encourage collaboration: While individual puzzles are beneficial, group activities can foster teamwork and collaboration. Consider incorporating group discussions or competitions to promote collaboration and peer learning.
• Provide hints and guidance: If students get stuck, offer hints or guidance to help them move forward. This prevents frustration and keeps the learning process enjoyable.
• Reflect on the solution: After solving a puzzle, encourage students to reflect on the problem-solving process. Discuss the strategies they used, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they learned. This promotes metacognition and helps students improve their problem-solving skills.

By incorporating individual logic puzzles and riddles into problem-solving activities, high school students can have a great time while developing essential cognitive skills and enhancing their ability to think critically and analytically.

Project-Based Learning Through STEM

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is an effective teaching method that encourages students to actively engage in real-world problem-solving . When combined with the subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), it creates a powerful learning experience for high school students.

PBL through STEM not only helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, but also fosters creativity, collaboration, and communication abilities.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by SOAR STEM Schools (@soarstemschools)

Coding Challenges

Coding challenges are an excellent way to introduce high school students to the world of computer programming. These challenges allow students to apply their logical thinking and problem-solving skills to create programs or solve coding problems.

Online platforms like Codecademy provide a wide range of coding challenges and tutorials for students to enhance their coding abilities. These challenges can be related to creating games, building websites, or developing mobile applications.

By engaging in coding challenges, students not only learn coding languages but also gain an understanding of the importance of computational thinking in today’s technology-driven world.

Engineering and Design Thinking Projects

Engineering and design thinking projects involve hands-on activities that allow high school students to apply their knowledge of engineering principles and design concepts. These projects can range from building simple structures using everyday materials to constructing complex machines and systems.

Websites like TeachEngineering provide a plethora of project ideas and resources for educators and students. By engaging in these projects, students learn to think critically, analyze problems, and develop innovative solutions.

They also develop essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and time management.

Science Investigation and Experiments

Science investigation and experiments are fundamental to STEM education as they enable high school students to explore scientific concepts through hands-on experiences. These activities involve formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results.

Websites like Science Buddies offer a vast collection of science project ideas and resources for students of all ages. By engaging in scientific investigations and experiments, students not only deepen their understanding of scientific concepts but also develop skills such as observation, data analysis, and critical thinking .

Socratic Seminars

Socratic Seminars are a valuable tool for engaging high school students in problem-solving activities. Originating from the Socratic method of teaching, these seminars encourage students to think critically and engage in thoughtful discussions.

The goal of a Socratic Seminar is to delve deeper into a particular topic or text by asking open-ended questions and encouraging students to analyze and evaluate different perspectives. This method promotes active listening, respectful dialogue, and the development of critical thinking skills.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Gloucester City High School (@gloucester_highschool_lions)

One of the key aspects of a successful Socratic Seminar is the preparation of thought-provoking discussion questions. These questions should be open-ended and encourage students to think deeply about the topic being discussed.

A well-prepared question can spark lively and insightful conversations, allowing students to explore different viewpoints and develop their own ideas. It is important for the facilitator or teacher to carefully select questions that will challenge the students and promote critical thinking.

When preparing discussion questions for a Socratic Seminar, it can be helpful to consider the following:

• What are the main themes or concepts that you want students to explore?
• How can you frame questions that will encourage students to analyze and evaluate different perspectives?
• Are there any current events or real-life examples that can be incorporated into the discussion?

During a Socratic Seminar, the facilitator plays a crucial role in guiding the conversation and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to participate. The facilitator should create a safe and inclusive environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions.

It is important to establish ground rules for respectful dialogue, such as using evidence to support arguments and actively listening to others.

The facilitator can also help steer the conversation by asking follow-up questions, summarizing key points, and encouraging students to elaborate on their ideas. By actively listening and responding to student contributions, the facilitator can foster a dynamic and engaging discussion that encourages problem-solving and critical thinking.

Socratic Seminars are a powerful tool for engaging high school students in problem-solving activities. By promoting critical thinking, active listening, and respectful dialogue, these seminars provide an opportunity for students to develop their analytical skills and engage in meaningful conversations.

Whether discussing a literary text or a current event, Socratic Seminars offer a platform for students to explore complex issues and find innovative solutions.

Problem solving abilities will serve students well both in academics and in life after school. The activities discussed give teens a chance to flex their critical thinking muscles in a hands-on, engaging way.

Group challenges teach teamwork and collaboration skills, while individual puzzles help sharpen logic and reasoning. Real-world projects allow students to creatively apply STEM concepts, and seminars provide conversational problem solving practice.

The next time your high schooler seems bored or disengaged, try one of these stimulating problem solving activities! With consistent practice, teens will develop stronger skills to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

Maria Sanchez is the founder of the Save Our Schools March blog. As a former teacher and parent, she is passionate about equitable access to quality public education. Maria created the blog to build awareness around education issues and solutions after organizing a local march for public schools.

With a Master's in Education, Maria taught high school English before leaving her career to raise a family. As a parent, she became concerned about underfunded schools and over-testing. These experiences drove Maria to become an education advocate.

On the blog, Maria provides resources and policy insights from the dual perspective of an informed parent and former teacher. She aims to inspire others to join the movement for quality, equitable public education. Maria lives with her family in [city, state].

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71+ Free Social Problem-Solving Scenarios

Do you have kiddos who struggle with their social problem-solving skills? Teach your students the simple process of how to solve a problem along with having them review how well their solution worked or didn’t work.

Learning to problem solve is an essential skill that is used not only throughout childhood but also into adulthood. Social problem solving is the ability to change or adapt to undesirable situations that arise throughout our day. On a daily basis, a child will encounter social problems that they will need to solve. Anything from arguing with another student, to hurting a friend’s feelings, to having a difficult conversation, or working with others.

Start with Small Problems

Many of the “problems” children encounter are often small problems which the child may be over-reacting to, such as wanting a different coloring crayon or wanting to be first in line, however, these small problems are still very real to the child. Practicing problem-solving with these small problems can be a great learning opportunity. Children can practice problem-solving with a small problem which can help them learn how to handle bigger problems in the future.

Problem Solving Importance

Social problem-solving skills are critical to a child’s social interactions, personal and professional relationships. A child’s ability to handle change, cope with stress, and handle challenges improves with a child’s ability to successfully solve social problems.

The ultimate goal is that the child will be able to solve social problems all on their own, but until they can independently solve a problem they will need to learn how to communicate and self-advocate to positively solve their problems.  

Students with Autism Problem Solving

Students with autism and other social challenges need to learn to problem solve as well. These social problem-solving skills will help them throughout their childhood and into their adulthood. Children can be taught how to problem solve through a guided process of breaking down the problem and using simple steps to solve the problem. Learning specific steps to problem-solving can allow children to remember how to solve a problem when they become overwhelmed or stressed. Although learning to solve a problem independently can take some time and practice it is well worth the investment to have a child who can eventually solve most social situations in a positive manner on their own.

Make Problem Solving Easier with this Freebie!

Download yours today to get started.

Problem Solving Form

Teach your students the 4 steps to becoming a social problem-solver.

• Identify the problem. For instance, start by having your student identify the social problem.
• Create three solutions. Also, have your student come up with three different solutions that they could use to solve the problem that they identified.
• Identify the consequences. Then, identify the consequence for each individual solution.
• Pick the best solution.  Lastly, have your student identify which of their three solutions is the best choice Then have your student put into words why they think that solution is the best solution.

What we learnt about solving problems is don't freak out, if one thing doesn't work , try something else out. And work together as a team. #melthammathsweek #MELTHAMPUPILVOICE @problemsolveit pic.twitter.com/iVm1Im4Aue — yr6melthamce (@yr6melthamce) February 4, 2019

Problem Solving Review Form

After your students go through the social problem-solver have them use the social problem-solving review form.

• What happened.  For instance, after your student tried their solution have them explain what happened next.
• Review the results. Also, have your student identify whether or not their solution got them the results they wanted.
• Use this solution again. Furthermore, have your student identify whether or not they would use this solution again in the future to solve the same or similar problem.
• What would you do differently? Finally, have your student explain what they would do differently if they didn’t get the results they wanted or if they wouldn’t use that solution again in the future.

71+ Social Problem Scenarios + 6 Blank Scenarios

Use the 71 social problem-solving scenarios to have your students get great experience practicing how to solve a social problem. Also, included are 6 blank scenarios. Then laminate them so you can use them over and over again. Therefore, create social problems that the student experiences and needs help solving.

Wordless Video teaching Problem Solving

Watch this super cute wordless animation with your students and have them discuss the problem they see and how to best solve the problem.

Use this as a fun practice example to get your students started towards learning how to problem-solve.

Demonstrate Through Modeling

• Model and discuss empathy. First and foremost, children need to understand how another person might be feeling in a given situation in order to become a good social problem solver. The student needs to learn how to “stand in someone else’s shoes” for a little bit. One way you can work on this skill is during the reading time you can focus on how a particular character in the story might be feeling. Ask questions, such as, “How do they feel right now? How would you feel in that same situation? Why do you think they feel that way?”, etc.
• Model problem-solving skills as the teacher. When you are faced with a problem you can solve the problem by thinking aloud for the students to hear how you solve a problem. You can state the problem, then come up with possible solutions, then identify the possible consequences to each solution, then pick and explain why a solution is the best option. For example, you could say, “I was hoping to take the class outside for a stress walk around the track before the reading test, but the problem is that it is raining outside. I could still take you outside, but then you will get wet, or we could walk the halls, but then we’d have to be really quiet because there are other classes learning, or we could just skip the walk and take the reading test, but then you might not do as well on the test. I think based on all of those solutions the best solution will be to walk the hallway, but you guys will have to promise to be quiet so that we don’t disrupt other classes. Modeling the problem-solving process can be very helpful for the students to watch, observe, and later implement themselves.

Teach Communication

• Have students communicate how they are feeling . Teaching your students to share their emotions in a respectful way can improve their ability to problem-solve. Have students use an “I” sentence frame, such as, “I feel _____ (insert feeling word) when _____ (identify what made you feel that way).” For example, “I felt sad when Jackson broke my favorite pencil” or “I was mad when I wasn’t picked to be first in line. “This way students can communicate how they are feeling using honest and open communication. Teaching students to appropriately communicate their emotions can help solve some social problems from the beginning.

Encourage Independency

• Encourage your student to problem solve. If your student is struggling to problem solve independently encourage them to do so using open-ended questions, such as “How could you fix this problem?” “What would be a fair solution?” “What would happen if you used that solution?”, etc.
• Let the student try to problem solve independently. Give your students the space to try and solve their own problems using the guided strategies. Try not to come running to their rescue for every little problem. Some problems are small and a great opportunity for the student to learn and practice. If an adult does all of the problem solving for a student then what are they really learning. Give your students the time and space they need to practice solving small problems on their own. Of course, if it is a bigger or more serious problem then have an adult help guide the problem-solving process.
• Tell an adult. Remind your students that there are still some problems that are too big for them to solve on their own and that it is okay to get help from an adult to solve big problems. For example, if the student doesn’t feel safe, someone is being hurt physically or emotionally, or if they tried to solve a problem independently but it didn’t work and they need help. Let them know that it’s okay to tell an adult.

Teach How to Disagree and How to Make Up

• Discuss how to disagree respectfully. Remind your student that they won’t always agree with their teacher, friends, classmate, or parents and that’s okay. Even the people we like might have different opinions, interests, and likes than we do. However, even if we disagree with someone we should still treat them with respect. Treating someone with respect means to not call them names, ignore them, yell or hit them. It means that you do try to create solutions that both parties can agree with and to apologize when we hurt others’ feelings.
• Role-play how to make up. Practice in everyday life how to make up after a social problem .

Get your free social problem solver today!

I hope you and your students love this freebie!

Students are really having to stretch their brains today. It's @NSPCC #NumberDay and @problemsolveit are challenging Y9 and 10 to solve the escape room boxes. It's not as easy as it looks! The promise of a few sweet treats for the winners seems to be helping though! pic.twitter.com/AxRRJnJIv2 — CongletonHS (@CongletonHS) February 2, 2018

Have your students use task card scenarios to help them identify how they and others might feel in different social scenarios. Be sure to discuss the problem, identify possible solutions, identify the consequences of those possible solutions, and then based on those consequences pick the best solution. Make social problem-solving a game by telling the students that they are social detectives and that it is their job to use what they know about social rules to help them identify the possible and best solutions. Start practicing today with 71+ free social problem social task cards! Do your students need more practice? Be sure to check out my other freebie for 31 wordless animated videos to teach problem-solving and so much more.

Get More Problem Solving Time Saving Materials

Next, be sure to check out the following time-saving materials to continue to teach your students how to solve their social problems in addition to this freebie.

Weekly Social Pragmatics Homework

• Weekly problem-solving.   Send home a  weekly homework page  that includes a problem-solving scenario plus an idiom and a conversational practice scenario.

Restorative Justice Problem Solving Flip Book

• Restorative justice graphic visual.  Use this graphic visual to help your student  restore a social relationship  after a social problem.

Self-Advocating Role-Play Scenarios

• Self-advocating in high school.  Teach your high schoolers the process to  self-advocate  for what they need.

5th-12th Grade Life Skills Problem Solving

• Life skills problem-solving.  In addition, this  life skills differentiated bundle  includes a problem-solving lesson plan.

I recommend you read Problem Solving Wheel: Help Kids Solve Their Own Problems , 61+ Free Fillable SLP Planner Pages 2020-2021 , 430+ Free Multisyllabic Words List Activity Bundle , or 432+ Free IEP Goal Bank to Save You Time posts because they include freebies as well and who doesn’t want more freebies!

Got questions? Leave a comment. Let’s chat!

Monday 30th of January 2023

Hello! I have entered my name and email twice (yesterday & today) to receive to 71+ Free Social Problem-Solving Senarios, but I have not received anything yet. Not even an email back to mine in order to subcribe. Thanks for your help! Tracy

Melissa Berg

Tuesday 31st of January 2023

Hi Tracy, Thanks so much for reaching out! Sorry about that. We went ahead and sent you an email with the PDF attached. Wishing you all my best, Melissa

Problem Solving Skills

Tuesday 30th of August 2022

I truly love your site. Excellent colors, theme and writing. Thanks for sharing.

Laura Ricca

Monday 11th of April 2022

Tuesday 12th of April 2022

Hi Laura, I'm glad you found this resource helpful. Melissa

Modified Mental Health and Suicide Prevention - Speech Therapy Store

Monday 11th of May 2020

[…] 71+ FREE SOCIAL PROBLEM-SOLVING SCENARIOS […]

Problem Solving Wheel: Help Kids Solve Their Own Problems - Speech Therapy Store

Monday 4th of May 2020

[…] 71+ Free Social Problem Solving Task Cards Scenarios […]

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

FREE Poetry Worksheet Bundle! Perfect for National Poetry Month.

100+ Clever Riddles for High School Students

Encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Good riddles can leave high school students both stumped and laughing. Trying to solve them and find the answer encourages creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It’s also a lot of fun! Want to share some with your class? Here’s a list of riddles for high school students to bring some energy to the classroom.

Riddles for High School Students

Which month has 28 days.

All months have 28 days.

A woman builds a house with all four walls facing south. A bear walks past the house. What color is the bear?

White. It is a polar bear.

Which is the sweetest and most romantic fruit?

I grow richer with alcohol but die with water. what am i, what do you break before you use it, what problem does a teacher with uncontrollable eyes have.

He cannot control his pupils.

What do you get when you mix sulfur, tungsten, and silver?

Trees are my home, but i never go inside. when i fall off a tree, i am dead. what am i, what can make an octopus laugh.

Ten-tickles.

How many books can you pack inside an empty backpack?

One. It is no longer empty after that.

I have hands, but I cannot shake your hands. I have a face, but I cannot smile at you. What am I?

What kind of food do mummies eat, i have no doors, but i have keys. i have no rooms, but i have space. you can enter, but you cannot leave. what am i.

A keyboard.

If you drop me on the ground, I survive. But if you drop me in water, I die. What am I?

What has a bottom at the top, you can hear me, but you cannot see or touch me. what am i, what is the similarity between “2 + 2 = 5” and your left hand.

Neither is right.

What sounds like a war machine but is a piece of clothing?

What is black and white and read all over.

A newspaper.

What has a thumb and fingers but is not alive?

How can a man go for eight days without sleeping.

He sleeps at night.

You live in a one-story house made entirely of redwood. What color are the stairs?

What stairs? It is a one-story house.

What do you find at the end of a line?

The letter “E.”

Name three consecutive days that aren’t the days of the week.

Yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

What is a snowman called in summer?

There are two fathers and two sons in a car. how many people are in the car.

Three people—a grandfather, a father, and a son.

What is full of holes but holds water?

My first letter is in chocolate but not in ham. my second letter is in cake and jam, and my third is in tea but not in coffee. what am i, a man shaves throughout the day, yet he has a beard. how.

He is a barber.

What has a head and a tail but no body?

An electric train is traveling from east to west, and the wind is blowing from north to south. in which direction does the smoke go.

None. Electric trains don’t produce smoke.

Which windows can’t you open literally?

The Windows on your laptop.

Kate’s mother has four daughters: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and _____. What is the name of the fourth daughter?

I can fill up a room but take no space. what am i, where does divorce come before marriage.

In the dictionary.

What starts with a P and ends with an X and has hundreds of letters in between?

It is lighter than a feather, but you can’t hold it for more than two minutes. what is it.

Your breath.

What type of music do rabbits like?

What gets wetter the more it dries, which weighs more, a pound of iron bars or a pound of feathers.

They both weigh the same.

What has a neck but no head?

I am made of water, but i die when you put water on me. what am i, what is the ancient invention that allows people to see through walls, what can’t be kept until it is given, what did the math book say to the pencil.

I have a lot of problems.

What gets sharper the more you use it?

Your brain.

A farmer walks toward his field and he sees three frogs sitting on the shoulders of two rabbits. Three parrots and four mice run toward him. How many pairs of legs are going toward the field?

One pair—the farmer’s.

What goes up but never comes down?

What room has no windows or doors.

A mushroom.

Which fruit is always sad?

A blueberry.

When I am young, I am tall. I grow shorter as I become older. What am I?

What has a mouth but cannot eat and runs but has no legs, what is a teenager’s favorite phrase during math class.

“I can’t even.”

What has branches but no leaves or fruits?

What has 13 hearts but no brains.

A pack of playing cards.

Which tree can you carry in your hand?

A palm tree.

If you are running a race and you pass the person who is running second, which position are you in?

When do you go at red and stop at green.

While eating a watermelon.

What is the center of gravity?

The letter “V.”

What has no beginning, end, or middle?

What grows bigger the more you take away from it, i am smooth as silk and can be hard or soft. i fall but cannot climb. what am i, what did the angry electron say when it was repelled.

Let me atom!

What do you place on the table and cut but never eat?

What did the english book say to the algebra book.

Don’t change the subject.

What vehicle is a palindrome?

What breaks the moment you say its name, what becomes shorter when you add two letters to it.

The word “short.”

During which month do people sleep the least?

February—it has the fewest days.

The person who buys me cannot use me, and the person who uses me cannot buy or see me. What am I?

Which english word has three consecutive double letters.

Bookkeeper.

You can hear me but cannot see me. I don’t speak until you do. What am I?

What can you find in a minute or an hour but never in a day or a month.

The letter “U.”

What is the only English word with “ii” in it?

You are alone at home and sleeping. your friends ring the doorbell. they have come for breakfast. you have cornflakes, bread, jam, a carton of milk, and a bottle of juice. what will you open first, what is the only english word with “uu” in it, i am hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget. what am i, i have seas with no water, mountains with no land, and towns with no people. what am i, what did the beach say when the tide came in.

Long time, no sea.

When you have me, you want to share me. But if you share me, you don’t have me any longer. What am I?

Find the number less than 100 that is increased by one-fifth of its value when its digits are reversed..

45 (1/5*45 = 9, 9+45 = 54)

What goes all around the world but stays in one place?

Forwards i am heavy, but backward i am not. what am i, an apple is 40 cents, a banana is 60 cents, and a grapefruit is 80 cents. how much is a pear.

40 cents. The price of each fruit is calculated by multiplying the number of vowels by 20 cents.

What has one eye but cannot see?

Everyone has me but nobody can lose me. what am i, there was a plane crash and every single person died. who survived, what invention lets you look right through a wall, they come out at night without being called and are lost in the day without being stolen. what are they, what has four legs but can’t walk, what goes up when rain comes down.

An umbrella.

I am your mother’s brother’s brother-in-law. Who am I?

Your father.

What has a tongue but never talks, and has no legs but sometimes walks?

I am a vegetable that bugs stay away from. what am i, born in an instant, i tell all stories. i can be lost, but i never die. what am i, with shiny fangs, my bloodless bite will bring together what’s mostly white. what am i, a plane crashed on the border of the united states and canada. where do they bury the survivors.

Nowhere—the survivors are alive.

What type of bow can never be tied?

What can be found at the beginning of eternity, the end of time and space, and the beginning of every end, there is only one word spelled wrong in the dictionary. what is it, what begins with t, finishes with t, and has t in it, what room do ghosts avoid.

The living room.

Bonus: Christmas Riddles for High School Students

What do you call a person who is scared of santa claus.

Claustrophobic.

If a lion had a Christmas music album, what would it be called?

Jungle bells.

What keeps a Christmas tree smelling fresh?

Orna-mints.

What do elves learn in school?

The elfabet.

Which reindeer can you see in outer space?

What is your parents’ favorite christmas carol.

“Silent Night.”

Can Christmas trees knit well?

No, they always drop their needles.

Share your riddles for high school students in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group  on Facebook!

Enjoy these riddles for high school students for more laughs, check out our favorite grammar jokes  and  science jokes..

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90+ Entertaining Riddles for Kids of All Ages (Answers Included)

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Home » Blog » General » Practical Social Problem Solving Scenarios for High School Students

Practical Social Problem Solving Scenarios for High School Students

As high school students navigate the complexities of social interactions, it is crucial for them to develop strong social problem-solving skills. These skills empower students to effectively navigate conflicts, make informed decisions, and build healthy relationships. In this blog post, we will explore practical social problem-solving scenarios specifically designed for high school students. By engaging in these scenarios, students can enhance their problem-solving abilities and improve their overall social-emotional well-being.

Understanding Social Problem Solving

Social problem-solving skills refer to the ability to identify, analyze, and resolve social conflicts and challenges. These skills involve various components, including critical thinking, decision-making, communication, empathy, and self-regulation. By developing these skills, high school students can effectively navigate social situations, build positive relationships, and make informed choices.

There are several benefits to developing social problem-solving skills. Firstly, these skills enhance students’ ability to manage conflicts and resolve issues peacefully. By learning how to identify the root causes of conflicts and generate creative solutions, students can foster positive relationships with their peers and authority figures. Additionally, social problem-solving skills promote self-confidence and self-efficacy, as students feel empowered to address challenges and make decisions aligned with their values and goals.

Let’s explore three practical social problem-solving scenarios that high school students commonly encounter:

Scenario 1: Dealing with conflicts among friends

1. Identifying the problem: Recognize the specific issue causing the conflict, such as a disagreement or misunderstanding.

2. Generating possible solutions: Brainstorm different ways to address the conflict, considering the perspectives and needs of all parties involved.

3. Evaluating the pros and cons of each solution: Analyze the potential outcomes and consequences of each solution.

4. Selecting the best solution: Choose the solution that is most likely to resolve the conflict and maintain positive relationships.

5. Implementing the chosen solution: Put the selected solution into action, communicating and collaborating with friends to resolve the conflict.

6. Reflecting on the outcome and adjusting if necessary: Evaluate the effectiveness of the chosen solution and make adjustments if needed for future conflicts.

Scenario 2: Handling peer pressure situations

1. Recognizing the pressure and potential consequences: Identify situations where peer pressure may arise and understand the potential negative outcomes.

2. Analyzing personal values and goals: Reflect on personal values and long-term goals to make decisions aligned with individual beliefs.

3. Generating alternative responses: Brainstorm different ways to respond to peer pressure, considering the potential impact on personal well-being and relationships.

4. Evaluating the potential outcomes of each response: Analyze the potential consequences of each response, considering short-term and long-term effects.

5. Making a decision aligned with personal values: Choose the response that aligns with personal values and promotes personal growth.

6. Communicating the decision assertively: Clearly and confidently communicate the decision to peers, expressing personal boundaries and values.

Scenario 3: Resolving conflicts with teachers or authority figures

1. Identifying the source of conflict: Understand the specific issue causing the conflict with the teacher or authority figure.

2. Understanding the perspective of the authority figure: Consider the perspective and concerns of the teacher or authority figure involved.

3. Expressing concerns and emotions respectfully: Communicate concerns and emotions in a respectful and constructive manner.

4. Collaborating to find a mutually beneficial solution: Work together with the authority figure to find a solution that addresses both parties’ needs.

5. Implementing the agreed-upon solution: Put the agreed-upon solution into action, following through on commitments made during the resolution process.

6. Reflecting on the resolution and learning from the experience: Reflect on the conflict resolution process, identifying lessons learned and strategies for future conflicts.

Strategies to Enhance Social Problem Solving Skills

In addition to engaging in practical scenarios, there are several strategies that high school students can utilize to enhance their social problem-solving skills:

A. Developing self-awareness and emotional regulation: By understanding their own emotions and triggers, students can better manage their reactions in social situations.

B. Practicing active listening and effective communication: Active listening skills and clear communication promote understanding and collaboration in problem-solving.

C. Encouraging perspective-taking and empathy: Developing empathy allows students to consider others’ perspectives and find mutually beneficial solutions.

D. Promoting critical thinking and decision-making skills: Encouraging students to think critically and make informed decisions fosters effective problem-solving abilities.

Developing social problem-solving skills is crucial for high school students as they navigate the complexities of social interactions. By engaging in practical scenarios and utilizing strategies such as self-awareness, active listening, empathy, and critical thinking, students can enhance their problem-solving abilities and improve their overall social-emotional well-being. Remember, practice and application are key to mastering these skills. Start your EverydaySpeech Free trial today to access a wide range of resources and activities that can support high school students in developing their social problem-solving skills.

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10 Helpful Worksheet Ideas for Primary School Math Lessons

M athematics is a fundamental subject that shapes the way children think and analyze the world. At the primary school level, laying a strong foundation is crucial. While hands-on activities, digital tools, and interactive discussions play significant roles in learning, worksheets remain an essential tool for reinforcing concepts, practicing skills, and assessing understanding. Here’s a look at some helpful worksheets for primary school math lessons.

Comparison Chart Worksheets

Comparison charts provide a visual means for primary school students to grasp relationships between numbers or concepts. They are easy to make at www.storyboardthat.com/create/comparison-chart-template , and here is how they can be used:

• Quantity Comparison: Charts might display two sets, like apples vs. bananas, prompting students to determine which set is larger.
• Attribute Comparison: These compare attributes, such as different shapes detailing their number of sides and characteristics.
• Number Line Comparisons: These help students understand number magnitude by placing numbers on a line to visualize their relative sizes.
• Venn Diagrams: Introduced in later primary grades, these diagrams help students compare and contrast two sets of items or concepts.
• Weather Charts: By comparing weather on different days, students can learn about temperature fluctuations and patterns.

Number Recognition and Counting Worksheets

For young learners, recognizing numbers and counting is the first step into the world of mathematics. Worksheets can offer:

• Number Tracing: Allows students to familiarize themselves with how each number is formed.
• Count and Circle: Images are presented, and students have to count and circle the correct number.
• Missing Numbers: Sequences with missing numbers that students must fill in to practice counting forward and backward.

Basic Arithmetic Worksheets

Once students are familiar with numbers, they can start simple arithmetic. 

• Addition and Subtraction within 10 or 20: Using visual aids like number lines, counters, or pictures can be beneficial.
• Word Problems: Simple real-life scenarios can help students relate math to their daily lives.
• Skip Counting: Worksheets focused on counting by 2s, 5s, or 10s.

Geometry and Shape Worksheets

Geometry offers a wonderful opportunity to relate math to the tangible world.

• Shape Identification: Recognizing and naming basic shapes such as squares, circles, triangles, etc.
• Comparing Shapes: Worksheets that help students identify differences and similarities between shapes.
• Pattern Recognition: Repeating shapes in patterns and asking students to determine the next shape in the sequence.

Measurement Worksheets

Measurement is another area where real-life application and math converge.

• Length and Height: Comparing two or more objects and determining which is longer or shorter.
• Weight: Lighter vs. heavier worksheets using balancing scales as visuals.
• Time: Reading clocks, days of the week, and understanding the calendar.

Data Handling Worksheets

Even at a primary level, students can start to understand basic data representation.

• Tally Marks: Using tally marks to represent data and counting them.
• Simple Bar Graphs: Interpreting and drawing bar graphs based on given data.
• Pictographs: Using pictures to represent data, which can be both fun and informative.

Place Value Worksheets

Understanding the value of each digit in a number is fundamental in primary math.

• Identifying Place Values: Recognizing units, tens, hundreds, etc., in a given number.
• Expanding Numbers: Breaking down numbers into their place value components, such as understanding 243 as 200 + 40 + 3.
• Comparing Numbers: Using greater than, less than, or equal to symbols to compare two numbers based on their place values.

Fraction Worksheets

Simple fraction concepts can be introduced at the primary level.

• Identifying Fractions: Recognizing half, quarter, third, etc., of shapes or sets.
• Comparing Fractions: Using visual aids like pie charts or shaded drawings to compare fractions.
• Simple Fraction Addition: Adding fractions with the same denominator using visual aids.

Money and Real-Life Application Worksheets

Understanding money is both practical and a great way to apply arithmetic.

• Identifying Coins and Notes: Recognizing different denominations.
• Simple Transactions: Calculating change, adding up costs, or determining if there’s enough money to buy certain items.
• Word Problems with Money: Real-life scenarios involving buying, selling, and saving.

Logic and Problem-Solving Worksheets

Even young students can hone their problem-solving skills with appropriate challenges.

• Sequences and Patterns: Predicting the next item in a sequence or recognizing a pattern.
• Logical Reasoning: Simple puzzles or riddles that require students to think critically.
• Story Problems: Reading a short story and solving a math-related problem based on the context.

Worksheets allow students to practice at their own pace, offer teachers a tool for assessment, and provide parents with a glimpse into their child’s learning progression. While digital tools and interactive activities are gaining prominence in education, the significance of worksheets remains undiminished. They are versatile and accessible and, when designed creatively, can make math engaging and fun for young learners.

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