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First Line Only

Problem‐solving courses, particularly in the Sciences, are often perceived as major obstacles for many students. Frequently, students do not know where to commence or approach a problem.

The First Line Only Strategy is particularly useful for students who need to be encouraged “to take the first step” towards finding the solution. In order to complete this exercise, the following is recommended:

  • Firstly, you need to present a variety of types of problems so that the learner builds confidence in addressing the first level of the problem.
  • Secondly, you will also need to give a strict time limit so that only the first step towards the solution is addressed.

You may want to follow this exercise with a matrix or Board Work Model that assists them in further categorizing how to solve problems.