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Probabilistic Language: A Path for the Development of Probabilistic Literacy. A Case Study in a Primary Education Classroom

Abstract

In this study, we focus on describing and analyzing how the first linguistic elements emerge during the process of teaching and learning probability, understood as a precise and specialized language that allows qualitatively expressions of the probability of occurrence for a certain event. To this end, we chose to undertake an exploratory study on the instruction process of Primary Education sophomores (approximately 7-8 year-old children) who have not received prior instruction on the subject. In particular, we analyzed the multiplicity of terms, oral and written expressions, symbols and representations that are used when it is intended that students gradually learn the notion of probability and acquire the respective probabilistic language. The results show a strong predominance of words and verbal expressions from the common language relating mainly to the intuitive meaning of probability, transiting towards concepts of probability court.

Keywords:
Probability; Probabilistic Language; Probability literacy; Approach to probability

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