Solving Math Problems Approximately A Developmental Perspective.解决数学问题约发育的角度来看精选.pdfVIP

RESEARCH ARTICLE Solving Math Problems Approximately: A Developmental Perspective Dana Ganor-Stern* Department of Psychology, Achva Academic College, Achva, Israel * danaganor@ Abstract Although solving arithmetic problems approximately is an important skill in everyday life, lit- tle is known about the development of this skill. Past research has shown that when children are asked to solve multi-digit multiplication problems approximately, they provide estimates that are often very far from the exact answer. This is unfortunate as computation estimation a11111 is needed in many circumstances in daily life. The present study examined 4th graders, 6th graders and adults’ ability to estimate the results of arithmetic problems relative to a refer- ence number. A developmental pattern was observed in accuracy, speed and strategy use. With age there was a general increase in speed, and an increase in accuracy mainly for tri- als in which the reference number was close to the exact answer. The children tended to use the sense of magnitude strategy, which does not involve any calculation but relies