The Study of First Grade Students’ Geometric Abilities Emphasizing Problem-solving Skills Using an Open Approach

Abstract

The research investigates first-grade students’ ability to learn about geometry. The intervention of geometric problem solving through an open approach consisted of 6 lesson plans of 2D and 3D shapes. Tools of interpretation included the geometric ability evaluation form for 3 independent class observers, a video recorder, and digital skill camera. Qualitative data was analyzed and presented in an analytical description. The results illustrate that the average score for geometric ability of first-grade students was interpreted as ‘very good’ (Mean = 3.56, S.D. = 0.45) which could be elaborated across 4 aspects. Their ability in Shape Recognition was at a ‘very good’ level (Mean = 3.66, S.D. = 0.40) indicating that the students identified circles, triangles, squares, and rectangles correctly. Their ability in Shape Reproduction was considered ‘very good’ (Mean = 3.61, S.D. = 0.39) which reflected how well they reproduced copies of the shapes from their memory. Their ability in Orientations was considered at a ‘good’ level (Mean = 3.49, S.D. = 0.43) indicating they could discuss if the shapes were vertical or horizontal. Their ability in Patterns, was at a ‘good’ level (Mean = 3.46, S.D. = 0.56), indicating that the students could sort the figures into patterns. Additionally, this study discovered notable developments in creativity and reasoning ability as the students use 3D shapes to replicate real-world items and explained the reasons why each shape was placed in a particular position.

Presenters

Naphaporn Woranetsudathip
Teacher, Mathematics, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand

Sampan Thinwiangthong
Khon Kaen University

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Early Childhood Learning

KEYWORDS

Problem-solving approach