Question

Which of the following best summarizes the strategic hint​ "Consider simpler, similar​ problems" and provides an example of the​ meaning?

A.The exact strategy used to solve​ simpler, similar problems is always used to solve the more difficult problems. For​ example, if a problem involves dividing polynomials and a simplier problem involves dividing​ integers, model that exact strategy to find a correct answer.
B.The exact strategy used to solve​ simpler, similar problems is almost never used to solve the more difficult problems. For​ example, if a problem involves subtracting decimals to 3 places and simplier problem involves subtracting decimals to 1​ place, the exact strategy is not used to find a correct answer.
C.​Sometimes, it is easier to consider​ simpler, similar problems. If there are no simpler​ problems, the question has no solution. For​ example, if a problem involves adding​ monomials, there is no​ simpler, similar method.​ So, there is no solution to that particular question.
D.​Sometimes, the insight gained from solving the easier problem may help to understand the original problem. For​ example, instead of picturing molecules mixing​ together, try to picture marbles mixing together.

Answer 1

The best summary of the strategic hint is: D. Sometimes, the insight gained from solving the easier problem may help to understand the original problem. For example, instead of picturing molecules mixing together, try to picture marbles mixing together.

The strategic hint "Consider simpler, similar problems" suggests that sometimes it is easier to consider simpler, similar problems to gain insight into a more complex problem.

The hint does not imply that the exact strategy used to solve the simpler problem will always be used to solve the more difficult problem. Instead, the insight gained from solving the simpler problem may help to understand the original problem.

Therefore, the best summary of the strategic hint is:

D. Sometimes, the insight gained from solving the easier problem may help to understand the original problem. For example, instead of picturing molecules mixing together, try to picture marbles mixing together.