Improving mathematical knowledge through modelling in elementary schools

The study presents the results of a 6th grade class (11 year olds) working on a modeling activity. Traditional mathematics textbooks mostly provide single and straightforward solution problems at which students only apply a formula to reach a solution. On the contrary, students ’ work on modeling activities focus on analysing a problematic situation, setting and testing conjectures and model construction. In modeling activities students work in small groups and they are actively engaged in fruitful discussions with their peers and teacher. The results of the study showed that: (a) students with no prior experience in modeling activities applied effectively their informal mathematical knowledge to solve an authentic problem, and (b) social interactions in groups enhanced the discovery of mathematical knowledge