Promoting conceptual thinking in four upper-elementary mathematics classrooms

Author/s: 

Elham Kazemi

,

Deborah Stipek

Year of Publication: 
2001
Publication: 
Elementary School Journal
Volume/Issue: 
102
Pages: 
59-80
Note: 
Reprinted in the Journal of Education, 189, pp. 123- 137, 2008/9

Informed by theory and research in inquiry-based mathematics, this study examined how classroom practices create a press for conceptual learning. Using videotapes of a lesson on the addition of fractions in 4 primarily low-income classrooms from 3 schools, we analyzed conversations that create a high or lower press for conceptual thinking. We use examples of interactions from these fourth- and fifth-grade lessons to propose that a high press for conceptual thinking is characterized by the following sociomathematical norms: (a) an explanation consists of a mathematical argument, not simply a procedural description; (b) mathematical thinking involves understanding relations among multiple strategies; (c) errors provide opportunities to reconceptualize a problem, explore contradictions in solutions, and pursue alternative strategies; and (d) collaborative work involves individual accountability and reaching consensus through mathematical argumentation.

APA Citation

Kazemi, E., & Stipek, D. (2001). Promoting conceptual thinking in four upper-elementary mathematics classrooms. Elementary School Journal, 102, 59-80.