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Determine whether the following statement makes sense or does not make sense, and explain your reasoning.

Polya's four steps in problem-solving make it possible for me to solve any mathematical problem easily and quickly.
A. The statement makes sense. If a necessary piece of information is missing, the problem may be impossible to solve.
B. The statement does not make sense. If an unnecessary piece of information is missing, the problem may be impossible to solve.
C. The statement makes sense. If an unnecessary piece of information is missing, the problem may be impossible to solve.
D. The statement does not make sense. If a necessary piece of information is missing, the problem may be impossible to solve.

User EPascoal
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1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The statement overestimates Polya's problem-solving steps because while they provide a structured method, they do not ensure ease or quickness in solving all problems, and a solution may not be possible if essential information is lacking.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement "Polya's four steps in problem-solving make it possible for me to solve any mathematical problem easily and quickly" could be misleading or overconfident.

While Polya's problem-solving steps are incredibly helpful in providing a structured approach to tackling mathematical problems, they do not guarantee ease and speed for every problem nor do they ensure a solution when critical information is missing.

This strategy involves identifying knowns and unknowns, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and reflecting on the solution, which aids in improving problem-solving skills over time and in diverse situations.

The statement does not make sense. If a necessary piece of information is missing, the problem may be impossible to solve. Polya's four steps in problem-solving are a helpful guide, but they do not guarantee that every problem can be solved easily and quickly.

These steps include understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and reflecting on the solution. However, the complexity of mathematical problems can vary, and some problems may require additional knowledge or techniques.

The correct answer is D: The statement does not make sense. If a necessary piece of information is missing, the problem may be impossible to solve. Polya's method can guide a thoughtful approach to problem-solving but cannot overcome the fundamental issue of missing necessary information.

User Bvulaj
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