Abstract:

In recent years, educational strategists in many countries have emphasized the importance of developing mathematical reasoning in improving the teaching of mathematics. This idea is now being actively discussed in Lithuania when updating general mathematics education program. Educational strategists, the academic and pedagogical community consider the fostering of students' mathematical reasoning as an important educational goal, but note that the concept of mathematical reasoning described in various educational documents is not clearly defined enough, its features are not highlighted. Also, analysis of individual cases when researchers examine mathematical reasoning, for example, in terms of the nature of reasoning, the result of reasoning, and the functioning of reasoning, do not bring clarity.

In this study, mathematical reasoning is the procedure and at the same time the result of the interpretation, conceptual substantiation and connection of the facts (properties of mathematics objects, mathematical relations between objects). At school, this procedure / result involves expressing an opinion about the object of reasoning based on the perceived meanings of the data, choosing a method of argumentation and formulation of the conclusion that corresponds to the available mathematical experience. The research problem is formulated as the question: what are the characteristics of mathematical reasoning based on correct logical arguments developed by primary school students?

After choosing the mathematical reasoning of the students in solving the problems as the research object, the aim of the research was to determine the peculiarities of the mathematical reasoning of the 4th grade students. The sample consisted of 46 4th grade primary school students. Research methodology: students were given the questionnaire consisting of 4 problems from different areas of mathematical activity. Students were asked to solve problems and explain their solutions. Problem solutions based on correct logical arguments were chosen for the analysis. Preliminary results of the study showed that the relatively small proportion of 4th grade students are able to develop correct logical arguments. The students‘ mathematical reasoning in general is not accurate and complete, students do not rely enough on mathematics knowledge and problems condition data.

Keywords:

Peculiarities of mathematical reasoning, correct logical argument, elementary school.