Computational Fluency, Multiplication Table and the Performance in Solving Verbal Problems in Middle School Students

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between computational fluency and the performance in solving verbal problems that require mathematical reasoning. The sample of this study consists of 428 fifth and sixth graders selected from several schools located in 4 mid-Anatolian cities. The data were gathered through 4 different tools; 1) Tempo Test Rekenen (TTR) 2) Verbal Problems Test 3) Multiplication Table Test (2 minutes) 4) Multiplication Table Test (20 minutes). The data were analyzed using statistical methods and Tempo Test Rekenen’s predictive power ofverbal problem solving skills was found as R= .692, R²= .478. Results showed that; a) Students’ arithmetic calculation skills effectively predict students’ performances in solving verbal questions that require mathematical reasoning, b) Their success of multiplication table tests increase if they are provided enough time, c) There is no significant difference between students’ TTR scores and verbal problem solving scores according to gender and grade. The findings of this study were discussed along with the related literature.