Problem and Solution Worksheets

Related ELA Standard: RL.1.7, RL.2.3

Core Standard

This is a pattern of organization of a story that organizes itself around a major concern or dilemma. It is very rare to find works of fiction that do not at some point require the main or secondary characters to struggle and need to work through something they may have not be prepared for. This is actually what becomes the main plot or focus of works of fiction. This often requires the protagonist (leading character) to partake in some level of drama in order to make a decision as how to solve the problem and arrive at a conclusion. These worksheets will help students learn to follow this type of organization and learn how to make more solid decisions.

Problem and Solution Worksheets:

See Into It - Can you think of a solution for each problem? Write it on the lines.

Solve Situations - You will come across a scenario that you must try to fix.

Matching - Everyday issues that can either worry you or you can fix up.

My Experience - Share some of your experiences with us in longer written out problem.

Story Analysis - See how this crosses over into literature.

Visual Solutions - You will draw a challenge and then how you can come to a quick fix.

Step-by-Step - Break your actions into numbered steps.

Everyday Issue - This is something that many teachers just have handy around their classes to help students work through issues.

In the Reading - Use this along with a story you are reading in class.

Practice - As you read, notice and record the worries and how to solve them in each story.

Work Through It - This worksheets highlights the necessary steps that you will need to contemplate to fix most obstacles.

What's Best - This will work you through multiple solutions and help you choose which is best.

Quick Fixes - You will get better at this with more experience.

Factors and Effects - Sometimes you need to take a slightly different path to get to where you are going.

My Options - This will help you settle any of your thoughts along the way.

How to Determine the Solution for a Problem

What is your first reaction when you face a problem? Most people panic; they can’t think clearly in a confused state and end up making the situation even worse. So, what is the best way to handle a problem?

 

The Problem-Solving Process

Let's face reality: life isn't perfect. We all face different problems every day, such as a fight with a friend, task deadlines, unfair treatment from a colleague, etc. Therefore, it’s important to develop the skill of finding the right solutions in life. You require problem-solving skills in every aspect of your life, whether it’s personal, professional, or social.


Do you want to make problem-solving skills a part of your personality? Practice the problem-solving process explained below.

 

1. Identify the Problem - The first step is to analyze the whole situation calmly. Take deep breaths to relax your mind and body. Once your mind is clear, try to figure out what exactly is bothering you. Then, examine the problem’s root cause. Remember: Gathering relevant data about the situation will help you in this regard. Take help from relevant parties if you can’t come up with a possible cause on your own.

When working in a team, make sure everyone agrees on the problem and the underlying factors that caused it. Hold discussions where everybody can convey their opinions to define the problem.

 

2. Find Possible Alternatives - Don’t think there is only one answer to every question. There are multiple ways to solve a problem. Discover all possible solutions by brainstorming for ideas on your own or with help from others. Try to look at the problem from different dimensions. Use techniques like prediction, forecasting, and planning for generating viable options. Don’t worry if the first strategy fails because you already have a backup plan.

 

3. Evaluate Your Options - Once you have all possible solutions lined up, the next step is to narrow the list down. Why? Because not all solutions will be a good fit for your problem. You can compare the pros and cons of each alternative, predict the possible outcomes of each strategy, and consider the costs and resources needed to implement them. After an in-depth analysis, circle down the best solution under the current circumstances.

 

4. Select & Implement Your Plan - At this point, you have already selected a potential solution for your problem. You just have to put your plan into action now. Set defined outcomes, benchmarks, and schedules so that you can manage and monitor your progress. You may also need help from others at this stage to achieve your goals.

 

5. Review Your Progress - The problem-solving process does not end with implementation. You have to review and evaluate if your plan is working or not. For this, you have to analyze the benchmarks set during implementation and ask others for opinions. If you feel that there is no significant progress, it’s time to change your action plan.