Problem Patterns (PP) approach: a schema-based word-problem-solving model using colored circles, operators, and paths

Design · All designs
Evidence · 2 claims (2 for) · 1 study (1 causal), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 2 claims rest on one study

Description

The Problem Patterns approach is a schema-based instructional model in which students represent word problems as diagrams of circles holding data points and operator circles, connected by colored lines showing the solution path. Students were "taught to break problems into data, units, and desired solution, removing irrelevant information, and make a solution model with manipulatives." The model distinguishes linear PPs, nonlinear PPs built from embedded linear sub-paths, and open versus closed forms, with irrelevant information appearing as unconnected circles.

Design Implications

Context

Requirements

• Students first identify main information, then relate known data and unknowns, then attach an operation to form the main path
• Different colors distinguish data circles, operator circles, and connecting lines so the main path can be found

Constraints

• Closed nonlinear PPs were very difficult for at-risk students, particularly second graders
• Nonlinear problems with more than one operation created greater information-processing load

Target Learners

• at-risk grade 2 and 3 students with mathematical difficulties retained in grade at least once

Learning Goals

• solving whole-number contextual word problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division

Claims

• Pp Approach Grade2 Posttest Significant [+M]
• Pp Approach Grade3 Posttest Significant [+M]

Related Designs

Examples

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Key Sources

• Amiripour, P., Dossey, J.A., & Shahvarani, A. (2017). Using a new schema approach with primary at-risk students in word problem solving. REDIMAT, 6(3), 228-255. http://dx.doi.org/10.17583/redimat.2017.2612

Page metadata

Field	Value
type	design
id	problem-patterns-pp-approach
title	Problem Patterns (PP) approach: a schema-based word-problem-solving model using colored circles, operators, and paths
description	The Problem Patterns approach is a schema-based instructional model in which students represent word problems as diagrams of circles holding data points and operator circles, connected by colored lines showing the sol...
status	review
generated	by process:settle-candidates on 2026-11-02
trust	unverified — no one has confirmed this page's content
sources	1 — amiripour-2017

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