Date of Graduation

Spring 2018

Degree

Master of Science in Education in Secondary Education in Mathematics

Department

Mathematics

Committee Chair

Kurt Killion

Abstract

The purpose of this action research study was to gain insight into a teacher’s successes and challenges of using worked examples to integrate Common Core State Standards (CCSS) Mathematical Practice 7 (MP7) into a high school Algebra 1 classroom. The 22 participants in this qualitative study were 9th – 11th grade students. Ten lessons were taught using worked examples to focus on mathematical structure. Data was collected in the form of reflective teacher journals and student artifacts. Observational data was also collected by a fellow mathematics teacher using an observational protocol. Analysis of the data indicated three successes: a) modeling of structure; b) communication of structure; c) teacher-researcher growth. Data analysis also indicated three challenges: a) nature of worked examples and curriculum; b) challenges of teacher-researcher, specifically the definition of structure, ineffective questioning techniques, and the teacher’s need to be in control; c) challenges with students’ abilities, specifically struggles with mathematical communication and prior knowledge.

Keywords

Common Core, mathematical practices, MP7, mathematical structure, worked examples, solved problems, Algebra 1

Subject Categories

Science and Mathematics Education | Secondary Education

Copyright

© Jennifer Lynn Barnes

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Open Access

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