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Increasing Levels Of Abstract Reasoning Ability In First And Second Graders Through Instruction In Inferential Thinking And Analogical Reasoning, Shelley Cindy Obrand

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education ETD Archive

The ability of first and second graders to use reasoning skills was addressed by the implementation of strategies to develop inferential thinking and analogical reasoning. Piagetian theory was researched in reference to expected levels of cognitive development. The target group of students received instruction in problem-solving to enable them to make inferences. They also received instruction in determining relationships to enable them to solve analogies. Instructional strategies included: modeling, verbal rehearsal, metacognition, peer tutoring, manipulative learning, and discovery learning. The students' progress was measured by Precision Teaching (a monitoring system involving charting to document growth). Inservice training was provided by …