Analysis of mathematical problem-solving skills viewed from initial ability and gender differences in an elementary school

Abstract

This study aims to describe the mathematical problem solving skills of students based ongender. This research is a descriptive qualitative study. Sampling was done by purposive sampling. Thesubjects of this study were fifth grade students of SDN Sinduadi 1 Sleman Yogyakarta in the academicyear 2018/2019. The technique of collecting data used are testing and interview methods to get dataabout the process of making information done by students in solving mathematical problems. Theinstruments used to collect data are solving test and interview guidelines. The results of this studyindicate male and female students who have low initial mathematical ability have not been able to applymathematical problem solving with Polya steps. Those students are include in very poor category. WherePolya steps are 1) understanding the problem, 2) plan problem solving, 3) solve the problem according tothe plan, and 4) re-checking. Therefore, special learning strategies and habituation are needed forstudents to solve the problem completely. In conclusion there are differences between male and female inproblem solving but not so significantly.