MILK CARTONS OF DIFFERENT TYPES: TEACHING VOLUME AND SURFACE AREA OF A PRISMA THROUGH PROBLEM SOLVING

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to report an experience developed through the methodology of Teaching-Learning-Assessment of Mathematics through Problem Solving, in order to enable the development of learning with understanding of Mathematics in a practice involving the calculation of volume and surface measurements of a prism, with students from the 7th year of elementary school. It was part of a master’s research, so a qualitative analysis was carried out, based on participant observation and the researcher teacher’s field diary, written records of students with the resolution of the activity, their testimonies and records made through audio recordings and photographs. The results showed that the resolution of the problem presented through this methodology allowed students to better understand the concepts of capacity, volume and surface area of prisms and to analyze which of the forms would be more advantageous (profitable) considering only the raw material used. In addition, it contributed to the development of students’ creativity, and allowed the researcher teacher to analyze students’ resolution strategies during the process and verify their understanding of the concepts involved and their importance for this practical situation.