Encouraging Mathematical Explorations Through Reasoning by Analogy in Abstract Algebra.

Analogy has played an important role in developing modern mathematics. However, it is unclear to what extent students are granted opportunities to productively reason by analogy. This article proposes a set of lessons for introducing topics in ring theory that allow students to engage with the process of reasoning by analogy while exploring new (to the students) mathematics. In this way, students come to creatively establish new concepts that they may take ownership of. I provide insights from previous implementations and conclude by reflecting on what has (and has not) worked well in my experience with implementing the lesson. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]