Enhancing students’ understanding in translating word problems into algebraic equations _ a case study at Navrongo community vocational training institute in the Ghana

Abstract

Word problem solving on linear equation in one variable is a complex process for many students. The purpose of this research was to use Constructive Teaching and Learning Approach to improve the University of Education, Winneba http://ir.uew.edu.gh 6 performance of students in translating word problem into linear equation in one variable and finding the solution of the resultant algebraic equation. T he research is an action research and the design used were unstructured interview, pre-test, and post test Students were interviewed to get an sight into their word problem solving strategies and how they used these strategies in solving word problem involving linear equations in one variable tasks. There was intervention carried out using the constructivist approach to teaching/learning. The analysis of the pre-test and posttest is based on quantitative data collected using descriptive and inferential statistics. The posttest mean score is 59.77 as against the pre-test mean score of 28.46. The major finding shows that the use of the constructive teaching and learning approach in teaching finding solution to word problems on linear equations is effective on students achievement. It is therefore recommended that appropriate courses need to be introduced in the Colleges of Education for the training of teachers in the skills of designing, developing and applying the Constructive Teaching and Learning Approach as well as other concrete materials in teaching translating of word problem into linear equations in one variable at the basic level of education