Investigation of BİLSEM students' success levels regarding basic concepts in patterns

The aim of the research is to examine the success levels of sixth and seventh grade students diagnosed as gifted in the general mental, music and art talent fields at Science and Art Centers (BİLSEM) regarding basic concepts in the sub-learning area of patterns. In addition, another aim of the research is to determine the errors and deficiencies of these students regarding patterns. The research was conducted on 94 students studying at Science and Art Centers in the Central Black Sea Region in the 2023-2024 academic year. Data were collected with the Pattern Test developed by the researcher with a KR-20 reliability coefficient of 0.73, and then supported with semi-structured interviews. In quantitative analyses, pattern test scores were evaluated by considering presentation formats (number, shape, verbal) and pattern structures; mean and standard deviation values were calculated. Differences between grade levels were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U test, and differences between talent areas were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis test. Qualitative data were interpreted using the descriptive analysis method. According to the research results, while seventh grade students had higher success than sixth grade students, no statistically significant difference was found in general success scores according to talent areas. However, when success scores were examined in terms of talent areas, significant differences were found in the form of figure presentation. Qualitative analyses revealed that there were differences in students' skills in integrating figural and numerical strategies and switching between representation formats while making generalizations.