Improving Language Comprehension to Enhance Word-Problem Solving

Abstract

The focus of this article is the role of language comprehension within word-problem solving (WPS). The role of the language comprehension in WPS is explained, and an overview of research illustrating language comprehension’s contribution to WPS is described. Next, an innovative intervention that embeds word problem (WP)-specific language comprehension instruction within a validated form of schema-based WP intervention is described, and the methods and results of a randomized controlled trial assessing the added value of embedding WP-specific language comprehension instruction are outlined. Implications for practice and future research are drawn.