Several minor gaps, however, occur through this literature on problem solving and SBI.
Subjects for studies are most often learning disabled students of either the early elementary
grades (second and third grades) or the middle school level. Perhaps due to the focus on the
learning disabled (LD) child, comparatively little research exists on the more complex
operations and concepts of elementary mathematics, such as multiplicative relationships or
fractions. In order to address these research needs, this study will focus on average-ability
elementary students in the upper elementary grades (four and five) as they attempt to solve
more complex word problems involving multiplicative comparisons and fractions.