Jogos matemáticos para o exercício do cálculo mental na aprendizagem de expressões numéricas dos alunos do 6º ano do ensino fundamental

Abstract

This study investigates how mathematical games can contribute to the practice of mental calculation in the learning of numerical expressions among sixth-grade elementary school students. The objective of the research is to analyze how these playful activities can promote the understanding and execution of mental calculations. The methodology was based on descriptive field research involving sixth-grade students at a public school in São Luís, Maranhão, named U.E.B. Governador Jackson Lago, whose results were analyzed using a quantitative and qualitative approach. We found that the use of mathematical games contributed to a reduction in the occurrence of errors in solving problems involving numerical expressions, as evidenced by the comparison of the diagnostic assessment administered at the beginning and end of the study. It promoted increased confidence among students in performing mental calculations. It also favored the development of mathematical skills to alleviate difficulties with essential content for responding to problem-solving situations involving numerical expressions, such as the four mathematical operations. Therefore, mathematical games prove to be effective tools for making learning more attractive and meaningful for students when solving problems involving arithmetic expressions. However, there is a need for constant review of the strategies to be adopted by the teacher, aiming for students to overcome their difficulties in Mathematics, knowledge of which is indispensable for our daily lives