Sistemas de Informação (Jun 2010)
The Van Hiele Model of Geometric Thought and possible contributions to the dynamic geometry
Abstract
This work presents the main ideas discussed in an essay written in a Computers and Education class in a Master Course at PPGI-UFRJ. We discuss the need to emphasize the topics related to euclidian geometry in primary and secondary schools. The Van Hiele model of the development of geometric thought is presented as a guideline for learning and as an instrument for the evaluation of students´ geometric abilities. Based on Van Hiele ideas and on tests created by the Fundão/UFRJ Project staff, a quantitative study on the level of geomteric thought was performed with students of a public technical high school in Rio de Janeiro. As conclusions, an exposition on possible contributions of dynamic geometry to the Van Hiele model is made.