, QUESTION 1 1.1 What is the difference between assimilation and
accommodation? (4) 1.2 Explain the difference between errors and
misconceptions in mathematics. Illustrate your answer with an example. (6)
1.3 Discuss the benefits of a constructivist approach in the teaching and
learning of mathematics. (10) [20]
1.1 Difference between assimilation and accommodation:
Assimilation and accommodation are terms introduced by Jean Piaget to describe processes
involved in cognitive development:
Assimilation refers to the process of taking in new information or experiences and
incorporating them into existing mental schemas or structures. In other words, it involves
fitting new information into pre-existing cognitive frameworks without changing those
frameworks substantially.
Accommodation, on the other hand, is the process of altering existing cognitive
frameworks to incorporate new information or experiences that do not fit into existing
schemas. It requires modifying or creating new schemas to adapt to the new information.
Example: Imagine a child who has a schema for birds. Initially, they may have a schema that all
birds are small and can fly (assimilation). However, when they encounter an ostrich (a large
flightless bird), they must accommodate this new information by either adjusting their bird
schema to include large flightless birds or creating a new schema specifically for ostriches.
1.2 Difference between errors and misconceptions in mathematics:
In mathematics education:
Errors are incorrect answers or steps in problem-solving that arise from computational
mistakes, misapplication of rules, or misunderstanding of procedures. Errors can be
corrected through feedback and further practice.
Misconceptions are more fundamental and persistent misunderstandings or flawed
beliefs about mathematical concepts, principles, or relationships. Misconceptions often
stem from faulty mental models or incomplete understanding of mathematical ideas and
may persist despite attempts to correct them.
Example: In division, a common error might be incorrectly subtracting instead of dividing in a
multi-step problem. A misconception, on the other hand, could be believing that multiplying
always results in a larger number than either of the factors.
1.3 Benefits of a constructivist approach in teaching and learning mathematics:
A constructivist approach in mathematics education emphasizes active engagement, exploration,
and sense-making by students. Here are some benefits:
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller Solutionist. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $2.50. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.