Dealing with Function Word Problems: Identifying and Interpreting Verbal Representations

Abstract

The intertwined conceptual and language demands of word problems for functional relationships can be challenging. A design research study containing 16 design experiments in a laboratory setting with ninth and tenth graders explored one typical challenge, recognizing the core of functional relationships in different representations. Adequately connecting verbal and symbolic representations requires identifying and interpreting the verbal representation by addressing the relevant facets. A qualitative analysis of students’ solution processes shows different approaches to this task.