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Jul 20, 2023
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Abstract

This study investigated Grade 10 Namibian learners' problem-solving skills in algebraic word problems. A sample of 351 Grade 10 learners from ten secondary schools in the Ohangwena Region in Namibia participated in this study. The study followed a qualitative approach and adopted Polya's Problem-Solving Model as the framework. The data were collected using the Algebra Word Problem-solving Test and Interview. The findings showed that the learners needed better problem-solving skills in algebraic word problems. Only 6% and 7% of the learners showed an ability to understand the problems and devise a plan, respectively, while only 5% could carry out the plans. Based on the findings, it is recommended that teachers introduce learners to Polya's steps of problem-solving and incorporate word problems into mathematics teaching.

Keywords

Algebraic word problem Polya problem-solving steps Problem-solving Problem-solving skills

Article Details

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

Author Biographies

Hesekiel K. Iilonga, University of Pretoria

Department of Science, Mathematics & Technology Education

Ugorji I. Ogbonnaya, University of Pretoria

Department of Science, Mathematics & Technology Education

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