ERIC Number: EJ1209515
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1012-2346
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Available Date: N/A
Developing a Model for Problem-Solving in a Grade 4 Mathematics Classroom
Nieuwoudt, Susan
Pythagoras, v36 n2 Article 275 2015
The teaching of problem-solving through the development of a problem-solving model was investigated in a Grade 4 mathematics classroom. Learners completed a questionnaire regarding their knowledge of mathematical problem-solving, their attitudes towards problem-solving, as well as their experiences in solving problems. Learners' responses revealed overall negative beliefs towards problem-solving as well as a lack of knowledge about what problem-solving in mathematics entails. The teacher then involved the learners in a structured learning programme where they worked in cooperative groups of six on different kinds of mathematical problems to solve. The groups regularly engaged in discussions about the different strategies they were using to solve a specific problem and eventually succeeded in formulating a generic problem-solving model they could call their own. The model was effectively used by the learners to solve various mathematical problems, reflecting their levels of cognitive development to a certain extent.
Descriptors: Models, Problem Solving, Mathematics Instruction, Grade 4, Student Attitudes, Foreign Countries, Mathematics Teachers, Elementary School Students, Elementary School Teachers, Elementary School Mathematics, Mathematics Activities
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education; Grade 4; Intermediate Grades
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: South Africa
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