Analysis of the production of a student considered unsuccessful in solving mathematical problems

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this research tends to investigate how un suc-cessful mathematical learners solve math problems when it is given them an opportunity to use their own strategies. Methods: The research characterizes as a qualitative study case, taking into account an interpretative analysis. The study was developed with a group of primary learners in the fifth year in a public school in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil. Data were collected through some interviews made of a mathematical teacher, attended his or her classes and filming the learners doing the mathematical activities and the way the teacher helped the unsuccessful learners in solving them. This text is presented the analysis of the data of one unsuccessful learner with difficulties in solving the problems given. Results: The results show us that when it is given the learner a possibility in using their own personal strategies, this learner will be able to solve the mathematical activity through different ways as followed: (the written skill, the impressed and manipulated material, the drawing strategies, and the use of the algorithm not conventional) in which this can be articulated itself. Conclusion: The conclusion is, therefore, there is a necessity to be considered related to the type of a mathematical problem is given to be done and the way teacher can lead to those learners who present some difficulties in and how the teacher will help the learners to achieve their goals and get successful. Thinking of a contextual school, the possibility of using different strategies in the process of solving mathematical activities will give the learners opportunities in re constructing the action made; thus, it is very important to develop and create a good environment of mathematical teaching and learning in which learners can get their autonomy and draw on the mathematical language.