Study of fractions in elementary mathematics textbooks from Finland and Taiwan. Issue 2 (15th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yang, Der-Ching
• Is Part Of: Educational studies. Volume 44:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 190
• Page End: 211
• Publication Date: 2018-03-15
• Subjects: Findland versus Taiwan mathematics tetbook comparisons -- real-life situations related to fraction -- representational types related to fractions -- treatment of fractions in textbooks; Education -- Periodicals; Éducation -- Périodiques; 370.5
• DOI: 10.1080/03055698.2017.1347493
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-5698

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines the different ways in which fractions are dealt with in two elementary mathematics textbook series: Kang Hsuan (KH) in Taiwan and Laskutaito in Finland. The results showed that the total number of fraction questions in Laskutaito is higher than that in KH and that Laskutaito highlights the basic definition of fractions to help children develop higher levels of reasoning. Fraction questions in Laskutaito were presented with a number of pictorial representations to clarify the concepts. Laskutaito includes more symbolic representation of questions. Moreover, the questions posed in the Laskutaito reflect real-life situations, whereas the questions posed in KH do not connect with real life. The implications of this study are discussed and suggestions for future studies are made in this paper.