Abstract

This study aims to investigate the mathematical word problem-solving skills of preschool children 5-6 ages.  To achieve this objective, the data were collected in four preschools (n=162). A mathematical word problem test was used as data collection tools. In this study, it was found that the children’s skills at solving mathematical word problems based on addition and subtraction were at a medium level. In terms of sub-categories, the children were found to do better with result-unknown problems but to have difficulties with initial-unknown problems. The most difficult problem type for the children was the compare category. Next, it was found that the children’s achievement was higher when they were addressed with “you-language”, with you the second person singular form in Turkish. Gender was found to be an inefficient variable. However, it was observed that the children’s achievement increased as they grew older. As a result, it is not only result-unknown problems they have but also different examples from other categories in preschool.

Key words: Preschool period, problem solving, mathematical word problems.