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Presentation
Diagram Effective or Diagram Dependent
Proceedings of the 41st Annual Conference of the Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia (2018)
  • Catherine Pearn, The University of Melbourne
  • Max Stephens, The University of Melbourne
  • Robyn Pierce, The University of Melbourne
Abstract
This paper will focus on two students who depended on diagrammatic representations in both a Fraction Screening Test and in a subsequent Structured Interview. One student attempted to use diagrams, with limited success, to identify the correct relationships, and consequently struggled to generalise her strategies as she responded to the questions presented in the interview. The other student used diagrams more effectively, and was able to move from a reliance on diagrams to using a partially multiplicative solution strategy. When supported by strong number knowledge, diagrams are an effective means for helping to solve reverse fraction tasks but may hinder students attempts to generalise their thinking. 
Keywords
  • Visual Aids,
  • Mathematics Instruction,
  • Fractions,
  • Instructional Effectiveness,
  • Thinking Skills,
  • Algebra,
  • Screening Tests,
  • Multiplication,
  • Problem Solving,
  • Secondary School Students,
  • Mathematics Tests,
  • Primary school students
Disciplines
Publication Date
January 1, 2018
Location
Auckland
Citation Information
Catherine Pearn, Max Stephens and Robyn Pierce. "Diagram Effective or Diagram Dependent" Proceedings of the 41st Annual Conference of the Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia (2018)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/catherine_pearn/33/