Student’s Difficulties in Solving Algebraic Word Problems

Abstract

This is a mixed method research in titled “Student’s difficulties in solving algebraic word problems”. This research was conducted to identify student’s difficulties and to analyze the major causes of difficulties’ in solving algebraic word problems. One mathematics teacher was selected by using purposive sampling method also six students selected for purpose of interview. The data was collected from achievement test and interview guidelines. The collected qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed and interpreted by using general inductive approach. The study was based on student difficulties in reading and language, comprehension, conceptual, transformation, solving process. While doing achievement test most of the student’s raise their voice and question about understanding question and its translation to mathematical term. Lack of prior knowledge was mostly notable things. Through the deep analysis and interpretation it was found that the conceptual and comprehension difficulties were mostly noticeable difficulties. Also student make mistake to translate world to symbol and mathematical term. Student who have knowledge of transforming make mistake on solving process. These types of problems were caused by lack of pre- knowledge, less practice of algebraic problems, teaching strategies, methods and less and lack of interaction between student and teachers.