Problem Solving Process: "Cut the Cheese Game"

Journal Entry: Introduce the “Problem Solving Process” – 4 Steps

1. Understand the Problem
   • What is known?
   • What is not known (This is what I am trying to solve)?
   • What are the conditions (restrictions or limitations).
2. Make a plan to solve the problem – This is known as an Algorithm!
3. Carry out the plan.
4. Review and reflect on how the problem was solved.

Begin The “Cut The Cheese” Game Materials: cheese stick, knife & napkin. Rules: Partners must cut the cheese stick into 12 pieces, no more and no less.  The pieces do not have to be equal in size. When the knife breaks through a side…it is considered a cut, but if the pieces are touching and you do a crosscut, it is considered one slice. You may not stack the slices of cheese. If you use your hand to break the cheese stick, it is considered a cut. The group that uses the least number of cuts to achieve 12 pieces wins.

Process:

• The groups will follow the 4 steps of the “Problem Solving Process.”
• Each group will state how many cuts it took them to break the cheese stick into 12 pieces.
• They will then: 4. Reflect & 2. Make a new plan. They will be handed a 2nd cheese stick.
• Each group will state how many cuts it took them on their 2nd attempt to break the cheese stick into 12 pieces.
• Groups will explain/draw to the class how they cut their cheese.

Conclusion: Yes, when the competition is over, you may eat the cheese!