November 2008, Vol. 15, Issue 4
Questioning Zero and Negative Numbers
Virginia Wilcox
After experiencing a
Developing Mathematical Ideas
(
DMI
) class on the construction of algebraic concepts surrounding zero and negative numbers, the author conducted an interview with a first grader to determine the youngster's existing level of understanding about these topics. Uncovering young students' existing understanding can provide focus when teachers approach new topics.
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