Working on the numeration system with teachers of elementary education

Abstract

Current analysis comprises a formation experience developed with Math teachers in the early years of schooling in state-run schools. It aims at investigating the process of teacher learning from a teaching activity developed in a teacher formation course. Concepts which are constitutive of a numeration system and basic operations are worked on since these concepts are relevant for the appropriation process of mathematical language. Concepts were developed so that teachers would appropriate them in the form in which they would be taught to the students. Preparation, presentation and reflections on solutions to situation-problem constitute the stages involved. Teachers understood the complexity that involved the numeration system and the teaching practice of the subject matter which is frequently given in a mechanical and decontextualized manner, without working on the concepts involved in the numeration system. The teaching activity also included the history of the number system beyond the history of facts. The production system of decimal numeration coupled to a discussion on its constitutive concepts could be perceived as from the production of teachers.