Grades 2–5
Five Steps to Solve a Problem
Number the five problem-solving steps in order, then use them on a forgotten-homework problem.
SEL worksheet · Problem solving and decisions
Problem-Solving Word Search
Find twelve problem-solving words, like option, calm and fair, hidden across, down and on a slant, then use one in a tip.
- Grade level
- Grades 2–4
- Time
- About 15 minutes
- Answer key
- Yes, page 2 of the PDF
- Kids practice
- Problem solving, Decision making, Thinking about consequences, Safety
What kids do
Printed on the sheet:
- Find each problem-solving word. Words go across, down and on a slant. Check each one you find.
- Use one word to write a problem-solving tip for a friend.
Words on this sheet
problemsolvechoicethinkplanideacalmoptionsafehelpfairtry
Teacher tip
Ask kids to use one word in a tip for a younger student.
How to use it
- Use real (and safe) classroom problems as extra examples.
- Let kids share how they decided, not just what they picked.
- Let kids choose to share or keep their answers private. Both are fine.
Watch for
Some scenarios involve safety. Make sure every child knows which grown-ups to tell.
Talk about it
- What could happen next if you made that choice?
- How might someone else see it differently?
Take it further
Act out a scenario two ways: one choice and then another.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
More problem solving and decisions worksheets
Grades 2–4
Many Ways to Solve It
Brainstorm three solutions for three everyday problems and star the best one for each.
Grades 2–5
Stop, Think, Choose
Use the red, yellow and green light to stop, think of choices and pick one for two problems.
Grades 3–5
Choices and Consequences
Match eight choices to what will probably happen next, then write about a choice you made.
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