The role of the Singapore bar model in reducing students' errors on algebra word problems


Baysal E., SEVİNÇ Ş.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MATHEMATICAL EDUCATION IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, vol.53, pp.289-310, 2022 (ESCI) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 53
  • Publication Date: 2022
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/0020739x.2021.1944683
  • Journal Name: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MATHEMATICAL EDUCATION IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, IBZ Online, Applied Science & Technology Source, Computer & Applied Sciences, EBSCO Education Source, Education Abstracts, Educational research abstracts (ERA), ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), zbMATH, DIALNET
  • Page Numbers: pp.289-310
  • Keywords: Algebra word problem, bar model, Singapore math, student errors, TEACHERS, BELIEFS
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study investigated the role of the bar model method, a significant aspect of the Singapore mathematics curriculum, in the remediation of seventh-grade students' errors on algebra word problems. To accomplish this purpose, we first assessed students' errors on a written test involving algebra problems and identified ten students based on the errors they demonstrated. These students were then offered instruction on how to use the bar model method. Following the instruction, we did clinical interviews and observed that the Singapore bar model method helped students understand the problem and transform words into mathematical expressions. Hence, the bar model served as an assistive tool for the remediation of students' errors in algebra word problems by facilitating students' comprehension and transformation.