Abstract:

The aim of the study was to reveal how the problem solving processes in middle grades (5th, 6th, and 7th) were influenced by compare type of word problems' expression using consistent and inconsistent language. The study group was consisted of 297 students in 5th, 6th, and 7th grades in public schools in Trabzon. In this research, data collection tools were a test made of eight comparison word problems and clinical interviews conducted with nine students. Data showed that students in all levels were found to be more successful in solving consistent language problems than inconsistent language problems. Students� wrong answers related to inconsistent language problems were usually about inappropriate use of four operations. Consequently, students were focusing on keywords and these keywords determined students� problems solving procedure

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