Why might students in a school store activity perform better than those given word problems?

The choice indicating that students found the school store engaging and learned better is appropriate because engagement is a crucial factor in learning. When students participate in activities that they find interesting or enjoyable, they are more likely to be motivated and attentive, which can greatly enhance their understanding and retention of the material.

In the context of the school store, the hands-on experience allows students to apply mathematical concepts in a real-world setting, making the learning process more relevant and practical. This experiential learning fosters deeper cognitive connections and helps students grasp complex mathematical ideas more effectively than through abstract word problems, which may not resonate with them as strongly.

Therefore, the level of engagement that the school store provided likely contributed to improved performance, as students are more inclined to apply themselves fully when they are invested in the activity.