Mathematical Representations: A Study in Solving Mathematical Word Problems at Grade 5 - Vietnam

Abstract

The paper aims to: (1) present the types of representations in solving mathematical problems;(2) to find out the types of representation used in solving word problems in textbook “Toan 5” (Mathematics 5) of Vietnam; and (3) report the results of a survey on using representations of Grade 5 students in solving non-routine mathematical problems. The study results revealed that the students faced many difficulties and had errors sin using visual and symbolic representation.