Problem solving and teaching 'group concept' from the point of symmetry

대칭성' 관점에서 본 '문제해결' 및 '군' 개념지도

  • Published : 2002.11.01

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is as follows: $^{\circleda}$ to disclose the essence of symmetry $^{\circledb}$ to propose the desirable strategy of problem-solving as to symmetry $^{\circledc}$ to clarify the relationship between symmetry and group $^{\circledd}$ to propose a way of introduction of 'group' in school mathematics according to its fundamental characteristic, symmetry. This study shows that the nature of symmetry is 'invariance under a transformation' and symmetry is the main idea of 'group'. In mathematics textbooks and mathematics education literature, we find out that the logic of symmetry is widespread. We illustrate two paradigmatic problem related to symmetrical logic and exemplify a desirable instruction of Pascal's triangle. This study also suggests a possibility of developing students' unformal and unconscious conception of group with sym metry idea from elementary to secondary school mathematics.

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