TEACHING MATHEMATICAL PROBLEM SOLVING WITH THE SOLVING MAP METHOD AT PRIMARY SCHOOL

In this study problem solving was integrated in thirty lessons of mathematics, mother tongue, natural sciences, art and crafts at grade 6 (average age of 11 years). This work focuses on the viability of using solving map in solving mathematical problems. The solving map supports pupils in looking for the route toward the solution and checking the phases they have used in their attempt to solve the problem. It also requires pupils to write down their ideas during the solving process. The experimental group (n=17) and the control group (n=35) took part in a pre- and post-test, which consisted of 13 problem tasks. The pupils in the experimental group were interviewed after the post-test. In the post-test the numerical calculations and the explanations of the experimental group had clearly improved. The numerical scores increased by 6. 10 points (29%) when the corresponding increase in the control group was 2.02 (9%). Problems in the tests were such that pupils could solve them using the information given in their mathematics book.