MATHEMATICAL CREATIVITY OF 8TH AND 10TH GRADE STUDENTS

One hundred and fifty-eight 8th graders and one hundred and eight 10th graders were asked to solve four multiple solution tasks (MSTs). Creativity is evaluated using Leikin's (2009) model that employs MSTs. Problem solving performance of 8 th and 10 th graders is compared with respect to correctness of the solutions, and the three components of creativity. fluency, flexibility and originality. While success in problem solving is highly correlated with fluency and flexibility, originality is shown to be a special mental quality. Consistent with other studies, we demonstrate that originality determines creativity stronger than fluency and flexibility do. This study once again demonstrates the validity of the model for evaluation of mathematical creativity by means of MSTs.