8th Year Students’ Definitions and Figural Recognitions of Solids: Concept Images

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate 8th students’ concept images of prism, pyramid,
cone and cylinder. For this purpose, students’ definitions and figural recognitions of these objects were
examined. Qualitative research method was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20
students chosen by maximum variation sample one of purposive sampling method. The collected
qualitative data were analyzed by content analysis. In finding, the properties of solids’s surfaces have
been found to come forward in the images. Over specialization related to pyramids’ base surface and
overgeneralization depend on expression of prisms were found. As a result, images depending on the
prototypes could be effective in all levels of students and they could lead to misconceptions. Based on the
results, in the teaching of solids it has been achieved the guiding tips