ERIC Number: EJ1227416
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2019
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1306-3030
EISSN: N/A
A Case Study Examining Links between Fractional Knowledge and Linear Equation Writing of Seventh-Grade Students and Whether to Introduce Linear Equations in an Earlier Grade
Lee, Mi Yeon
International Electronic Journal of Mathematics Education, v14 n1 p109-122 2019
As a part of the larger study, a case study of two seventh grade students, Peter and Willa, was conducted. To examine links between their fractional knowledge and algebraic reasoning, the students were interviewed twice, once for their fractional knowledge and once for their algebraic knowledge in writing linear equations that required explicit use of unknowns. Peter and Willa's fractional knowledge influenced the linear equations they wrote to represent quantitative situations. In particular, the findings showed that a reversible iterative fraction scheme is important to understand reciprocal relationships between two quantities in writing a basic linear equation of the form ax=b. Also, considering fractions as multipliers on unknowns is important to write linear equations. Implications for the possibility of introducing linear equations in an earlier grade and how to support the introduction are suggested.
Descriptors: Fractions, Mathematics Skills, Equations (Mathematics), Instructional Program Divisions, Algebra, Mathematical Logic, Knowledge Level, Mathematical Concepts, Grade 7, Middle School Students, Problem Solving, Mathematics Instruction
International Electronic Journal of Mathematics Education. Suite 124, Challenge House 616 Mitcham Road, CR0 3AA, Croydon, London, UK. Tel: +44-208-936-7681; e-mail: iejme@iejme.com; Web site: https://www.iejme.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education; Grade 7; Junior High Schools; Middle Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A