Real World Problem Situation’s Models Created by 6th Grade Students in Mathematical Modelling

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to examine real world problem situation’s models created by 6th grade students in mathematical modelling. The study, which was designed as the basic qualitative design, consisted of 64 middle school students who have not attended any modelling activities from three moderately successful schools in Denizli. Qualitative data were collected with the help of written answer sheets given to modelling problem, and the observation notes which were taken by the researchers during the study. In the qualitative data analysis, content analysis was utilized. Real models were presented as pictures, figures, tables/lists. In developing model, experience, understanding, prediction/measurement and mathematical knowledge were effective. Real models were used for the purpose of obtain to mathematical solution/result and interpretation. Students couldn’t reflect their mental models to real world problem situation’s models, also they included unnecessary drawings in the solutions and their models, and they couldn’t create qualified models because of not identifying required strategic factors. Students couldn’t create realistic models because of mixing up the concepts such as length and weight and having incorrect guesses. An obstacle for students in getting expected success in later steps was having superficial operations or interpretations. With atomistic approach, the competencies of students in developing real models in modelling should be developed.