Numerical Expressions Situations in 6th Grade Textbooks: an analysis according to the Theory of Conceptual Fields

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze how the situations involving numerical expressions are portrayed in the textbooks of the sixth year of Elementary School, according to the Theory of Conceptual Fields. Seven collections of textbooks used in public schools in a city in the countryside of Rio Grande do Sul were selected. This is a documental study with a corpus of analysis of 47 activities in the format of problems. We analyzed task instructions and resolutions of numerical expressions, their writing, and representation by diagram, in addition, multiplicative, and mixed problems. The problems approach the conceptual fields in a diversified way, with greater frequency of multiplicative situations of simple proportion. It is suggested that the work with numerical expressions be carried out with the use of diagrams and manifold situations, in order to provide the construction of the operation concept and the understanding of the rules of prevalence and the need for students to write association signs.

Keywords:
Numerical Expressions; Textbook; Theory of Conceptual Fields