The improvement of 10th students' mathematical communication skills through learning ellipse topics

Abstract

Mathematical education in general, and mathematics education at high schools in particular, creates favorable conditions for students to develop essential and core competencies and assists students in improving their mathematical competence as a foundation for good learning. It also promotes necessary skills for society, in which mathematical communication skills are essential skills. The purpose of the research is to enhance students' mathematical communication skills while studying ellipse topics. In this study, 87 students in the tenth grade were tested to see if the teaching process for accelerating the development of mathematical communication skills related to ellipse topics was effective and possible. Students in the experimental class were instructed using a four-step learning model with the activities regarding the ACODESA method and mind map, whereas students in the control class were guided using the conventional way of instruction. A study design involving a pre-test, a treatment, and a post-test was used to determine the effectiveness of this type of teaching approach. Quantitative and qualitative analyses of the gathered data assessed the students' progress in mathematical language activities. The findings indicated that most students' mathematical communication skills regarding ellipse topics had improved significantly. The learners towards the above process also showed a positive attitude. In addition, the research findings have important implications and recommendations.