RESEARCH PAPER
Enhancing the acquisition of basic algebraic principles using algebra tiles
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Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Education, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, SPAIN
Online publication date: 2024-06-19
Publication date: 2024-07-01
EURASIA J. Math., Sci Tech. Ed 2024;20(7):em2473
KEYWORDS
ABSTRACT
Introducing initial algebraic principles poses a significant challenge, often compounded by the
inherent abstract nature of algebra. This article introduces an innovative pedagogical approach
that promotes the use of algebra tiles, a didactic manipulative material formed by a collection of
geometric pieces symbolizing distinct algebraic monomials. Additionally, this article includes the
findings of a quasi-experimental study that applied this inventive teaching method. This research
was carried out across two separate classes of 15 students (10 boys and five girls) of first year of
compulsory secondary education. One group of students adhered to the conventional teaching
approach (the control group), while the other class embraced the proposed methodology using
algebra tiles (the experimental group). The disparities in algebraic proficiency observed between
these two student groups, as assessed through various examinations conducted during the
intervention were statistically significant, with the experimental group consistently achieving
superior results. Moreover, mathematical and algebraic errors of students were assessed using
eight distinct indicators. In all cases, the experimental group demonstrated lower error
percentages, and these errors showed a marked decrease as the intervention progressed. In
summary, this innovative methodology markedly enhanced students’ comprehension of algebra,
their knowledge, and their motivation while significantly reducing mathematical errors.
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