Development of a Geometric Spatial Visualization Tool

This paper documents the development of the Geometric Spatial Assessment. We detail the development of this instrument which was designed to identify middle school students' strategies and advancement in understanding of four geometric concept domains (geometric spatial visualization, spatial projection, cardinal directions, and periodic patterns) after experiencing a carefully designed integrated lunar unit. Previous research with students using this lunar unit showed students making significant gains on lunar-related concepts (both scientific and mathematical) on a Lunar Phases Concept Inventory (LPCI) (Lindell & Olsen, 2002). Following the administration of single domain assessments, clinical interviews were conducted to ascertain students' problem solving strategies. Results allowed us to select four suitable multiple-choice items per domain.