Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to identify the effect of theorem proofs with mathematical models on students’ views on proofs. The sample was comprised of 45 sophomore students of elementary school mathematics teaching during the 2014-2015 academic year. Case study model was used in this study. The data were collected using the Views on Mathematical Proofs Survey and semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The results of the pretest showed that the students were biased against proofs, that they were hesitant about proofs, that they neither liked nor knew about proofs and that they considered proofs to be a waste of time. The results of the posttest revealed that the students found it easier to prove theorems with mathematical models and developed a positive attitude towards proofs. Since the use of mathematical models for theorem proofs will, above all, help students understand the expression of the theorem, mathematical models should be used for te

Keywords: