Conceptual difficulties in children's understanding of secondary school algebra in standards 6, 7, and 8 : (the application of the CSMS algebra test to a sample of South African school children)

Abstract

The application of mathematical ways of thinking to nearly all the major fields of knowledge in recent times has increased the value of mathematics in society ... schools, therefore, are increasingly confronted with the task of developing to the maximum the mathematical abilities and interests of all its pupils with the view of meeting the needs of society. This includes an appreciation and understanding of the aesthetic and abstract qualities of mathematics as well as a knowledge of its utilitarian value in society. The question arises whether schools are achieving this? (Chapter 1, p. 3)