Indicativos de discalculia e diferenças de desempenho em matemática entre escolares do trapézio amazônico

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the incidence of schoolchildren with indications of dyscalculia and to verify if there are differences in mathematical performance among schoolchildren considering biological sex. The research was a characterization and association study, analyzing possible effects between variables, with a quantitative approach. The Pronumero Numerical Processing and Calculation Assessment Battery was used as an instrument. The sample consisted of 301 fifth-grade students from three cities located in the Amazon Trapezoid. The results were analyzed based on standardized scores, according to the scoring criteria and cut-off points previously established by the instrument. The normality of the data distribution was verified using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. The analyses used the parametric Student's t-test for independent samples and the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test, when necessary. The results indicated a high incidence of mathematical difficulties at mild and severe levels in arithmetic problem-solving, calculation, and numerical transcoding skills, with no significant differences between boys and girls. These findings indicate the presence of weaknesses in numerical processing, possibly associated with external factors, as well as internal factors such as dyscalculia, highlighting the need for pedagogical interventions and inclusive practices to ensure mathematical learning in the context of basic education in the Amazon region.