Examining the Relation Between Strategy Repertoire and Proportional Reasoning Ability in Middle School Students

• In Event: Algebra, Proportional Reasoning, and Working Memory

Abstract

This descriptive correlational study explored the strategy repertoire of 399 seventh-grade students and its relation to their proportional reasoning abilities. Students completed tests on strategy repertoire and proportional reasoning. Results indicated a significant difference in the mean number of strategies used for direct and inverse proportion problems, with direct proportion strategies being favored. Cross-multiplication and across-multiplication were most commonly used for direct and inverse proportion problems, respectively. Students’ proportional reasoning test scores were positively related to the number of strategies used for solving proportion word problems, suggesting better proportional reasoning ability with more strategies employed. Additionally, students’ proportional reasoning test scores varied significantly based on their first solution strategy and use of specific strategies.

Authors

• Muhammet Arıcan, Bogazici University

• Lieven Verschaffel, KU Leuven

• Wim Van Dooren, Center for Instructional Psychology and Technology