The Word Problem Comprehension is based on Richard Mayer's cognitive analysis of the cognitive skills involved in mathematical problem solving into problem translation (understanding each sentence of the problem), problem integration (building a mental representation of the situation described in the problem), solution planning (devising and monitoring a solution plan), and solution executing (carrying out the plan by making computations). It is intended to assess a child's ability to mentally represent and understand an arithmetic word problem rather than to compute a numerical answer. The test is intended for elementary school children.

Research by Mayer et al. (1997) shows that students who participated in the Fifth Demension correctly answered 44% more of the items on the Word Problem Comprehension Test then matched students who did not participate in the Fifth Demension.

The Word Problem Comprehension Test is discussed in the following published articles:

Mayer, R.E., Quilici, J., Moreno, R., Duran, R., Woodbridge, S., Simon, R., Sanchez, D. & Lavezzo, A. (1997). Cognitive consequences of participation in a Fifth Dimension after-school computer club. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 16, 353-369.

Mayer, R.E., Tajika, H., & Stanley, C. (1991). Mathematical problem solving in Japan and the United States: A controlled comparison. Journal of Educational Psychology, 82, 69-72.

Top

Return to Word Problem Comprehension Test Home Page
Back to Home Page