Algebraic Thinking among Primary Pupils: A Boost for Interest in Mathematics

Abstract

This study was to help Primary pupils, specifically Basic five (5) pupils to improve their participation and interest in mathematics by promoting their thinking in algebra. It was also to develop the algebraic thinking abilities to promote active learning of Mathematics. Pre-intervention, Post-intervention tests and questionnaire were used in assessing the algebraic thinking abilities of the pupils. The entire class consisting of fifteen pupils was used as the population for the study. Another class of seventy eight pupils was used as a control. It was realised that the pupils performed poorly but for the intervention of Active Learning geared towards Cognitive Reasoning. The pupils though had a low level in developmental thinking with regard to solving algebraic problems and a dread for school because of Mathematics, later proved worthy of increasing their level of algebraic thinking. A new impetus was developed by the pupils as a result of the ability to tackle algebraic problems. This study suggests that Practical Active Learning geared towards Cognitive Reasoning should be used in fostering the algebraic thinking of primary pupils. It also suggests that pupils should be allowed to solve word problems the way they understand the problems by demonstrating with daily life activities and that teachers should keep on motivating pupils to enable them develop interest for Mathematics.