Algebraic thinking in the context of geometry and measurement: Eighth-grade students’ reasoning processes
Yasemin Ataş Koçluk 1 * , Dilek Tanışlı 2
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1 Ministry of National Education, Türkiye
2 Anadolu University, Faculty of Education, Department of Mathematics Education, Eskişehir, Türkiye
* Corresponding Author

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine how eighth-grade students use symbols and algebraic relationships, patterns and generalization, and multiple representations in geometry and measurement tasks within the framework of algebraic thinking, and to identify the conceptual difficulties that emerge during this process. In the study, algebraic thinking was addressed through the components of symbols and algebraic relationships, patterns and generalization, and multiple representations. The study was conducted using a basic qualitative research design. The data were collected through clinical interviews, video recordings, and student worksheets from six eighth-grade students attending a public school with a middle socio-economic profile. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that students’ algebraic thinking levels differ markedly in geometry and measurement tasks in terms of their ways of using and interpreting formulas, simplifying algebraic expressions, constructing equations appropriate to verbal situations, interpreting the meanings of literal expressions, making generalizations for near and far terms in patterns, and transitioning between representations.  

Keywords

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