• School Mathematics
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• v.9 no.1
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• pp.141-160
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• 2007

The purpose of this paper was to evaluate how students apply prior knowledge or experience in solving algebra word problems from the chain of signification-based perspective. Three middle school students were evaluated in this case study. The results showed that the subjects formed similarities in the process of applying knowledge needed for solving a problem. The student A and C used semi-open-end formulas and closed formulas as solutions. They then formed concrete shape for each solution using the chain of signification that was applied for solution by forming procedural similarity. At this time, the chain of signification could be the combination of numbers, words, and pictures (such as diagrams or graphs) or just numbers or words. On the other hand, the student C who recognized closed formulas and her own rule as a solution method could not formulate completely procedural similarity due to many errors arising from number information. Nonetheless, all of the subjects showed something in common in the process of coming up with a algorithm that was semi-open-end formula or closed formula.