Solving graphics problems: Student performance in the junior grades

This study investigated the performance of 172 Grade 4 students (9 to 10 years) over a 12 month period on a 36-item test that comprised items from six distinct graphical languages (e.g., maps) that are commonly used to convey mathematical information. The results of the study revealed: 1) difficulties in Grade 4 students’ capacity to decoding a variety of graphics; 2) significant improvements in the students’ performance on these graphical languages over time; 3) gender differences across some graphical languages; and 4) the influence of spatial ability on decoding performance. The implications of this study include the need to support the development of students’ ability to decode graphics beyond activities usually investigated in mathematics curricula.