Secondary Students' Understanding of Mathematical Proofs: Can Grade Level Be a Predictor?

• In Event: 70.066 - Roundtable Session 28
  In Roundtable Session: 70.066-2 - High School and University Students' Mathematical Thinking

Abstract

A survey was designed to investigate students’ understanding of mathematical proofs, in particular their judgment of the validity of empirical and algebraic arguments. Over 1000 students who were enrolled in Grades 7 – 10 of the public schools in a U.S. Midwest state completed the survey. Students’ responses were analyzed quantitatively to determine if there was significant between-grade difference. Results of the study suggested that students from higher grade levels didn’t demonstrated a more mature understanding of empirical and algebraic arguments.

Authors

• Yating Liu, Old Dominion University

• Cherng-Jyh Yen, Old Dominion University