Abstract:

Abstract enThe aim of this study is to analyse mathematical problems which require use of mathematical operations with natural numbers developed by primary school students, meanings attached to these problems. The study design was qualitative research based on the survey model. The data of the study were collected through a semi-structured form involving problem statements. The participants were primary school students attending public schools in two big cities during the school year of 2013-2014. More specifically, there were 65 first grade, 85 second grade, 90 third grade and 88 fourth grade students. 2612 mathematical problems were produced by the participants. Of them 327 were developed by first grade, 595 by second grade, 810 by third grade and 880 by fourth grade students. The data was analysed through descriptive statistics and content analysis. The findings of study showed that majority of participants regardless of grade levels were much more successful in developing mathematical problems which required use of addition and subtraction rather than multiplication and division. The participants mostly developed verbal problems. In regard to meanings attached to mathematics problems it was found that participants regarded addition as combination, subtraction as isolation, and multiplication and division as equal groups.

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