In the theoretical part of my diploma thesis I define what teaching aids are and classify them. Then I present two research articles about the efficiency of virtual manipulatives in learning mathematics. This is followed by a presentation of Bruner's classification of representations, which is very helpful in teaching new concepts. I also explain various methods of solving linear equations in accordance with the most recent curriculum for mathematics in elementary schools.
In the empirical part of the diploma thesis I present a model of guided work with a virtual manipulative. I carried out a lesson, where the students of the 7^th grade use virtual balance scale and learn how to solve equations by algebraic transformation. I observed three students during the lesson to find out where they had problems or lack of understanding. After the lesson I performed a test without the use of virtual scales. The purpose of the research was to find out whether 7^th grade students developed an appropriate understanding of solving linear equations with the help of the model of guided work with a virtual manipulative.
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