The paper reports about a study on the knowledge of prospective mathematics teachers from China (Hong Kong and Mainland China) with regard to argumentation and proof as well as beliefs about using preformal and formal proofs in lessons based on a study design developed by Schwarz (2013). The study pointed out that the prospective teachers were generally strong in algebraic reflections and operations, but they lacked reflections on mathematical argumentation and proofs and their adequate teaching, for example, how to provide adequate feedback about proving approaches. Furthermore, differences concerning the acceptance of preformal proofs between prospective teachers from Hong Kong and Mainland China were found out in this study, which may be related to differences in the mathematics curriculum in these two regions. Implications for teaching proofs in geometry and algebra are discussed.
[Copyright © Association of Mathematics Educators].

A review of recent studies in Hong Kong suggests that possible problems in secondary school algebra may be due to the procedural paradigm orientation in the curriculum and the conventional style of teaching in the classroom which do not provide sufficient opportunities for students to develop conceptual understanding. Based on the works of a number of projects in the West, it is hypothesized that the introduction of technology in lessons which embody a cognitive model in their design and delivery will provide a viable alternative for enhancing algebraic thinking. The key features of the cognitive model are concrete preparation, cognitive conflict, construction, metacognition and bridging, imbedded in a 'mediation' style of teaching. These features are exemplified by detailed accounts of classroom episodes from a Hong Kong lesson supported by the use of graphics calculators. Results indicate that while the approach places particular demands on teachers (a tension between a transmission style of teaching and mediating) there is real potential for supporting more dynamic student constructions.
[Copyright of International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology is the property of Taylor & Francis. Full article may be available at the publisher's website:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/002073900412660]