Mathematical Argumentation, a Precursor Concept of Mathematical Proof

This lecture offers a reflection on the challenge posed by the current trend of curricula and standards to recommend starting the learning of proof from the very beginning of the compulsory school.This trend pushes on the fore the notion of argumentation, it is here discussed as well as its relations to proof as a convincing and an explaining legitimate means to support the truth of a statement in the mathematics classroom.Eventually, a didactical concept of mathematical argumentation is discussed and elements of its characterization are proposed.