Abstract:

Mathematics is fundamental to the approach to any kind of knowledge and as a basis for new learning in order for students to gain more complex understanding. However, problems are detected in its teaching and learning. In the science context of the subject in the second year of the Diversification Programme Curriculum, we study the learning of linear equations with one unknown, the systems of two equations with two unknowns, and their application in solving exercises and problems. Through the development of a teaching unit and its subsequent assessment, our goal delves into detecting student’s learning difficulties and evaluating the degree of knowledge acquired.
Diversity is fairly common in our classrooms nowadays. For this reason, first it is explained what the Curricular Diversification Programme is and to what demand it responds. The second section focuses on the investigation of the learning problems of the equations. Then the programme implemented with the class group is presented. Finally, through the subsequent evaluation, and as an improvement, a new proposal based on project work is carried out. We have been able to observe some difficulties that Carolyn Kieran studied in her research. Examples of these would be the way students see the equal sign, difficulties with the chains of symbols and with the notation, difficulties to express formally the problem-solving methods and the interpretation of the variables. Moreover, we stress the importance of training future teachers to address diversity in our classrooms and the need to teach our students to face and learn mathematics without any kind of fear.

Keywords:

Diversification Programme Curriculum, linear equations, learning difficulties, project work, training, diversity.