earticle

영어

The purpose of the study was to analyze mathematical competencies in middle school third graders’ students. The research methodology involves a carefully designed case study of two average-ability students from a middle school in Seoul. Utilizing an IPAD, the students were tasked with solving a modeling problem termed 'Teacher's Diet,' conceptualized by the author. The entire process was meticulously recorded, with minimal teacher intervention, to preserve the authenticity of the students' problem-solving approach. The paper's theoretical contribution lies in its formalization of the evaluation process for mathematical modeling competencies. It delineates the sub-competencies required for each phase of modeling, encompassing Simplifying (translating real-world problems into mathematical representations), Mathematising (setting up mathematical models), Working Mathematically (deriving mathematical results), Interpreting (relating mathematical results to real-world contexts), and Validating (critically reflecting on the results and the model). The findings illuminate the potential efficacy of mathematical modeling as a pedagogical tool to navigate complex mathematical problems. They also accentuate the exigent need for a more robust integration of mathematical modeling in the Korean educational landscape. This paper's insights bear significant implications for curriculum development and pedagogical practices, contributing to the broader discourse on enhancing mathematical literacy and critical thinking skills in middle school education.