Learning difficulties in verbal problems of algebra for grade eight students

Abstract

The main focus of the study was to explore learning difficulties in the verbal problem of algebra for grade eight students. The objectives of the study were to explore student’s difficulties in learning algebra word problems and to find out learning strategies of teachers to teach algebraic equations of verbal problems. To fulfill these objectives the study has listed research questions: What are the difficulties in solving algebraic verbal problems in grade eight? What kind of difficulties students feel in solving algebraic verbal problems? And how do teachers teach algebraic equations of verbal problems? To investigate these research questions, I selected qualitative research design with a case study approach. The study sites of the research were darchula public school, Asian academy school, Mahendra higher secondary school and secondary school dhap of darchula district. The participants of the study were one mathematics teacher and two students from each school. I utilized a purposive sampling method to select participants and observe the classroom as well as conduct interviews with achievement test questions of students for data collection. The collected data were analyzed with help of Newman’s Error theory and reviewed literature. The main finding of research was reasons for students to out week in algebra,they failed to understand. Students lack an appropriate choice of equation and incorrect use of sign symbols. Students made a lot of mistakes in arithmetic operations. Students have lack of pre knowledge and lack of interaction with math teachers because there were a large number of students in a single class. Students could not have interest in mathematics because they had no one to guide them at home. The teacher was known about lesson plan,use of materials and use of method but was unable to practice it in real environment.