A comparison of the 8th grade middle school students' algebraic and geometrical thinking levels with central examination achievements: Demirci case

This research aims to find the relationship between geometrical and algebraic thinking levels of the 8th grade students and to compare these levels with their central examination achievements. The study group was conducted on 455 students attending 8th grade of 13 different schools in Demirci district of Manisa in Turkey in 2016-2017 academic year. Survey model was carried out as a quantitative research method. In order to determine the students' geometrical thinking level, Geometrical Thinking Level Determination Test which was developed by Ususkin and adapted in Turkish by Duatepe is used. Also, Algebraic Thinking Level Determination Test that is developed by Hart et. al and adopted in Turkish by Altun is conducted on students. The data gathered is analyzed through SPSS 23 package program for correlation and regression analysis. Findings reveal that the correlation coefficient between geometrical and algebraic thinking levels is r=.38 (p<.05), which points a moderately significant positive relationship. According to regression analysis, the multiple correlation coefficient between central examination achievement and algebraic and geometrical thinking levels is R=.75 (p<.05), which means that algebraic and geometrical thinking levels predicts 56.3% of central examination achievements. Finally, results are discussed and some suggestions are given in the light of findings.