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ERIC Number: EJ768907
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007-Mar
Pages: 4
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0025-5785
EISSN: N/A
Proof and Geometric Reasoning
Evans, Rebecca
Mathematics Teaching Incorporating Micromath, n201 p38-41 Mar 2007
Proof is a fundamental aspect of mathematics. Without the notion of proof, mathematics would not exist as a separate subject, as it would be essentially indistinguishable from science. Yet proof is often reserved for "high ability" students in schools or those studying mathematics in further education. The author's own memories of engaging in proof at school are restricted to encountering it as an isolated topic on the A-level syllabus. Such practices deprive many students of opportunities to develop the skills and mathematical understanding they can access through activities that require them to explain, reason and justify their mathematical thinking. It also deprives them of the opportunity to understand the unique contribution the subject makes to their learning. This article describes how the author used teaching about angles as an opportunity to discuss ideas of formal proof and geometric reasoning with a Year 7 class, and discusses some lessons she has taken away from her attempt. (Contains 2 notes.)
Association of Teachers of Mathematics. Unit 7 Prime Industrial Park, Shaftesbury Street, Derby, DE23 8YB, UK. Tel: +44-1332-346599; e-mail: admin@atm.org.uk; Web site: http://www.atm.org.uk/mt/index.html
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Adult Education; Grade 6; Intermediate Grades; Middle Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: United Kingdom (England)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A