Abstract
This study constitutes a first step towards the elaboration of a method for intervening in the processes of solving concrete mathematical problems, based on the processing of expressions often included in the statement of addition and multiplication problems presented to second-cycle elementary students (ages 9 to 12). Forty-eight students took part in the experiment: the 29 subjects of the experimental group were divided into small groups of about 5 subjects in each and had to perform various learning exercises. The aim of these exercises was essentially to improve skills in analyzing and processing certain expressions frequently included in the statements of addition and multiplication problems. The effect of these learning exercises on problem-solving was evaluated by a problem-solving pre-test and post-test presented to the subjects in both groups. The learning exercises helped significantly to improve the problem-solving performance of subjects in the experimental group. Analysis of the verbal productions of the subjects in this group during the learning exercises revealed certain factors related to the effectiveness of the method of intervention proposed in this research.
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Lemoyne, G., Tremblay, C. Addition and multiplication: Problem-solving and interpretation of relevant data. Educ Stud Math 17, 97–123 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00311516
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00311516