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Student Strategies Suggesting Emergence of Mental Structures Supporting Logical and Abstract Thinking: Multiplicative Reasoning.
- Source :
- School Science & Mathematics; Feb2014, Vol. 114 Issue 2, p87-96, 10p
- Publication Year :
- 2014
-
Abstract
- For many students, developing mathematical reasoning can prove to be challenging. Such difficulty may be explained by a deficit in the core understanding of many arithmetical concepts taught in early school years. Multiplicative reasoning is one such concept that produces an essential foundation upon which higher-level mathematical thinking skills are built. The purpose of this study is to recognize indicators of multiplicative reasoning among fourth-grade students. Through cross-case analysis, the researcher used a test instrument to observe patterns of multiplicative reasoning at varying levels in a sample of 14 math students from a low socioeconomic school. Results indicate that the participants fell into three categories: premultiplicative, emergent, and multiplier. Consequently, 12 new sublevels were developed that further describe the multiplicative thinking of these fourth graders within the categories mentioned. Rather than being provided the standard mathematical algorithms, students should be encouraged to personally develop their own unique explanations, formulas, and understanding of general number system mechanics. When instructors are aware of their students' distinctive methods of determining multiplicative reasoning strategies and multiplying schemes, they are more apt to provide the most appropriate learning environment for their students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Subjects :
- GRADING of students
TEACHERS
REASONING
MATHEMATICS
EDUCATIONAL tests & measurements
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 00366803
- Volume :
- 114
- Issue :
- 2
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- School Science & Mathematics
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 93786402
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1111/ssm.12053