Research in Mathematical Education (한국수학교육학회지시리즈D:수학교육연구)

Korean Society of Mathematical Education (한국수학교육학회)
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An Analysis of Fraction Operation Sense to Enhance Early Algebraic Thinking

  • Lee, Jiyoung (Paldal Elementary School) ;
  • Pang, Jeongsuk (Department of Elementary Education, Korea National University of Education)
  • Received : 2012.09.25
  • Accepted : 2012.12.20
  • Published : 2012.12.31
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Abstract

While many studies on early algebra have been conducted, there have been only a few studies on the operation sense as the fundamental element of algebraic thinking, especially the fraction operation sense. This study explored the dimensions of fraction operation sense and then investigated students' fraction operation sense. A total of 183 of sixth graders were surveyed and 5 students who showed high operation sense were clinically interviewed in order to analyze their algebraic thinking in detail. The results showed that students had a tendency to use direct calculation or employ inappropriate operation sense rather than to use the structure of operation or the relation between operations on the basis of algebraic thinking. This study implies that explicit instruction on early algebra is necessary from the elementary school years.

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References

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