Problem Solving Task Cards — Printable & Digital
When a student gets stuck, what they need most is not the answer.
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About this resource
When a student gets stuck, what they need most is not the answer. These problem solving task cards give Grades 2–5 a process for trouble with friends, group projects and unfair situations: slow down, look at what is actually happening and think through what to do next. The cards build Responsible Decision-Making.
What students practice
- Naming a problem clearly
- Coming up with more than one solution
- Thinking through consequences before acting
- Solving problems without causing conflict
- Not giving up when something goes wrong
What’s inside
- 100 task cards in two sets: Set A (50 cards, Grades 2–3) with everyday problems from lunch, recess and classroom routines, and Set B (50 cards, Grades 4–5) with peer dynamics, fairness and competing priorities
- 2 cards per page or 4 cards per page
- 100 reflection sheets, one per card
- 182 pages, 80 in the card file and 102 in the reflection sheet file
A look inside
- Set A: “You want to check out a library book, but someone else already has it. What are some ways you can handle this problem?”
- Set B: “Your partner wants to rush through the assignment, but you want to do your best work. How can you solve this problem without causing conflict?”
- Set B: “Your Chromebook or tablet won’t turn on during classwork time. What could you do to solve the problem without giving up?”
How to use these problem solving task cards
- SEL lessons on responsible decision-making and critical thinking
- Morning meeting discussion starters
- Partner work, small group stations or early finisher enrichment
- Counseling groups working on problem-solving strategies
Grade fit
These task cards for students come in two sets. Set A is labelled for Grades 2–3 and takes on a library book someone else has. Set B, for Grades 4–5, adds competing interests, fairness and harder choices.
Digital version
The interactive digital task cards share as one link: you choose Set A or Set B, and students type their answers on any device with no student logins. At the end they download an answer sheet to hand in.
Pairs well with
For more problem solving activities with longer scenarios, add Problem Solving Scenario Cards, which include guided questions and journal pages.
Questions teachers ask
Can the cards work as stations?
Yes. They work as discussion starters, written prompts or station activities with no extra prep.
Do students need accounts for the digital version?
No. You share one link, and students open it on any device without logging in.
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