Algebra learning: procedures and difficulties encountered in problem solving
Some studies indicate that students struggle with solving algebra problems. Others show that they are able to solve such problems before they are taught algebra. This article examines what students do prior and subsequent to their school-based algebra instruction. We examined the productions of 528 students (6th year of primary school to 2nd year of secondary school in Quebec, students 11–14 years old). The results indicate that the procedures used to solve algebra problems are similar before and after students receive algebra instruction. Two categories of difficulties emerge: understanding problem relationships and manipulating algebraic equations. Identifying and discussing these difficulties offers a way to better determine elements of reflection to take into account in order to work on problems in class and to promote the shift from solving problems trough words to writing algebraic expressions.