There are a variety of heuristics that can be useful to students. I dentify the problem. D efine and represent the problem. E xplore possible solution strategies. A ct on the strategies.
L ook back and evaluate.
This scheme is beneficial in a large number of disciplines. For example, in a composition class, students might follow these steps in developing a response against the argument that Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn should be removed from libraries because it is a racist book. Of course the problem is that banning this book would essentially mean removing a great historical and cultural artifact from circulation. In defining the problem, a student would need to determine which passages are offensive to particular audiences. One possible solution strategy might include claiming that these passages can be used to stimulate discussion on racism, its role in late 19th century America, and how our culture has changed over the years.