A STUDY ON ENHANCING 8th GRADE STUDENTS COMPREHENSION OF MATH WORD PROBLEMS  

                                            - ALFIA K KARIM


ABSTRACT


Mathematics often poses challenges for students, particularly when it comes to word problems. This study was conducted at Government Girls Higher Secondary School  Perumbavoor during an internship program to address the difficulty 8th-grade students face in understanding and solving mathematical word problems. The research aimed to identify the root causes of the issue and implement strategies to improve students' comprehension and analytical skills. Using methods like observation, group activities, and vocabulary development, this  research attempts to provide actionable insights for better teaching practices.


INTRODUCTION


Mathematics word problems are a crucial component of the subject, requiring students to combine their understanding of language with logical and analytical reasoning to arrive at solutions. However, for many students in class 8A at GGHSS Perumbavoor, this has proven to be a significant challenge. These students often struggle to comprehend the language and structure of word problems, which prevents them from identifying the core issue presented in the question. This difficulty becomes evident in their inability to decode the problem statements and determine the appropriate mathematical operations to solve them. The gap in comprehension not only hinders their problem-solving abilities but also affects their confidence and interest in mathematics. Recognizing this recurring issue, the research focuses on identifying the root causes behind these struggles and devising targeted strategies to address them. By implementing interventions aimed at improving vocabulary, reading habits, and analytical skills, this study seeks to enhance students’ performance and confidence in solving mathematical word problems effectively.


OBJECTIVES


• To improve students’ comprehension and analysis of mathematical word problems.

•To develop reading habits among students to enhance their understanding.

• To foster confidence through group activities and discussions.

•To introduce engaging vocabulary-based activities related to mathematics.

•To enhance creativity and problem-solving skills through practice and reinforcement.


METHODOLOGY



To enhance the comprehension of math word problems among 8th-grade students, a combination of observational analysis, instructional strategies, and practical interventions was implemented. Observation played a central role in identifying the specific challenges faced by students. Initially, classroom sessions were observed to assess how students approached and solved word problems, focusing on their problem-solving strategies, interpretation of mathematical language, and common misconceptions. Notes were taken on recurring difficulties, such as struggles with decoding complex phrases or connecting real-world scenarios to mathematical concepts. 

Based on these observations, personalized teaching methods were introduced, including step-by-step guidance, visual aids, and interactive activities. Group discussions and peer-learning exercises were also organized to encourage collaborative problem-solving. Regular assessments were conducted to monitor progress and adjust teaching techniques as necessary. The intervention spanned a period of three months, during which qualitative data from student interactions and quantitative data from test performance were collected to evaluate the effectiveness of the method. 


DATA COLLECTION


To gain insights into 8th-grade students' comprehension of math word problems, data collection involved detailed classroom observations. These observations focused on how students approached problem-solving tasks, identified key information, and translated worded scenarios into mathematical expressions. Patterns of student behavior, such as hesitation in decoding vocabulary or skipping steps in multi-layered problems, were documented. Additionally, the instructor’s teaching strategies, such as the use of visual aids, scaffolding techniques, and questioning methods, were observed to evaluate their impact on student engagement and understanding. Notably, students often collaborated in small groups, revealing their collective strengths and individual weaknesses in tackling word problems. These observational insights provided a foundation for designing targeted interventions aimed at bridging comprehension gaps and fostering analytical skill. 


CAUSES


•Limited Vocabulary

•Lack of Reading Habit

• Insufficient Practice

•Anxiety and Lack of Confidence


EVIDENCE


•Classroom observations revealed frequent struggles in interpreting mathematical terms and questions.

•Students with poor reading habits faced more challenges in decoding problem statements.

•Performance analysis showed low success rates in solving word problems due to inadequate practice.

•Vocabulary-building activities and group discussions led to noticeable improvement in students' comprehension and confidence.


DISCUSSION


The research highlighted that the challenges faced by students in solving mathematical word problems stemmed largely from weak foundational skills. A major focus was placed on enhancing their reading habits, as it became evident that poor reading abilities hindered their comprehension of problem statements. Introducing vocabulary-based activities, such as puzzles and games, helped students familiarize themselves with mathematical terminology, effectively bridging the gap between language and mathematical concepts. Furthermore, group activities and discussions created an environment of collaborative learning, where students could freely interact, exchange ideas, and clarify doubts. This approach not only improved their understanding but also boosted their confidence in tackling word problems. Consistent practice and reinforcement played a crucial role in enhancing their speed, accuracy, and overall performance. By addressing these fundamental issues, the intervention strategies brought about a noticeable improvement in the students’ ability to comprehend and solve word problems, reinforcing the effectiveness of a multi-faceted teaching approach.


CONCLUSION


This research highlights the importance of addressing the linguistic and cognitive barriers students face in solving mathematical word problems. Developing vocabulary, fostering creativity, and providing opportunities for collaborative learning can significantly enhance students’ comprehension and analytical skills. Teachers should incorporate these strategies into their teaching methods to ensure a better understanding of mathematics. With continuous practice and motivation, students can overcome their challenges and excel in solving word problems.


REFERENCE


Trends and development in modern educational practices- Dr. K. Sivarajan

www.Slideshare.net

www.edutopia.org

https://the art of education. edu

https:www.sagepub.com

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