An investigation into how Grade 12 students understand and solve Geometric problems

Cranfield, Corvell George

An investigation into how Grade 12 students understand and solve Geometric problems

Master Thesis

2001

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

School of Education

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Abstract

This study investigates how grade 12 students understand and solve geometric problems. A review of the literature on "how students learn and understand geometry" is used to develop a conceptual framework for discussion. The framework is used to assess students' level of understanding and to analyse their difficulties in solving geometric problems. The study was conducted at four low achieving schools in mathematics (based on student performance in the South African Senior Certificate Examination). It involved 267 students across the schools. The students' level of understanding was assessed through the use of two tests. These tests were designed to cover 80% of the grade 11 syllabus and involved the testing of a terminology framework (test 1) and problem solving exercises (test 2). Test 1 included 10 items were students were asked to complete statements, as well as 9 items where students were asked to write down properties from given sketches. Test 2 included 16 items of true or false responses.

Description

Bibliography: leaves 104-108.

Reference:

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