The Development of Preschool Students’ Algebraic Thinking Skills: A Case Study Approach

Basic mathematical skills which are significant for furthere ducation levels and also for being successful in real life are gained during early childhood education period. This study was done in Agriprovince with four preschool students in repeating, growing and relational patterns to analyse their algebraic thinking skills. In this case study approach, criterion sampling method was used. With respect to looking for pattern, identifying and defining patterns and generalising patterns steps of algebraic thinking skill, findings indicated that participants, who didn’t have experience in growing patterns in their previous lessons, were more successful in the sepatterns than repeating patterns they had experienced.