Computational, Logical, Argumentative, and Representational Thinking in the United Arab Emirates Schools: Fifth Grade Students' Skills in Mathematical Problem Solving

The purpose of this study was to analyze the problem-solving techniques that students in a fifth-grade classroom applied while solving mathematical word problems. Fifth-grade students in a private school with Ministry of Education curricula in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, were given a set of 15-word problems to solve with detailed justifications. The questions were based on TIMSS past exams with some modifications to fit the local context. Analysis from the study generated five themes that students applied in problem-solving: Logical Thinking Skills, Computational Skills, Problem-solving Strategies, Use of Justifications, and Use of Representations. Pedagogical and curricular implications have been discussed.