5 Examples: Up to 52% Unable to Solve These Math Problems Upon Leaving Primary School

The latest PISA survey has revealed a worrying trend among young school students, particularly in Denmark, where they are beginning to perform worse, especially in mathematics.

This decline in proficiency is a growing concern for educators and policymakers.

According to the survey, a significant number of students are struggling with basic arithmetic. The report from Pensionist highlights that 20-30% of students are unable to solve elementary math problems. This issue becomes even more pronounced when elements like fractions are involved, with the difficulty rate jumping to between 30 and 60%.

Danish Broadcasting Corporation (DR) has identified five examples of math problems that a large number of school students found challenging. These examples reflect the struggles students face in grasping fundamental mathematical concepts.

1. 0.7 – 1 = ? (47% could not answer correctly in 2017)

2. 4509 / 9 = ? (29% could not answer correctly in 2016)

3. 801 – 499 = ? (29% could not answer correctly in 2018)

4. 1/8 + ? = 3/4 (52% could not answer correctly in 2018)

5. 7 x 508 = ? (36% could not answer correctly in 2023)

The correct answers to these problems are as follows:

1. -0.3

2. 501

3. 302

4. 5/8

5. 3556

Were you able to solve all five of them?