What is Algebra?
Algebra involves using symbols to create mathematical expressions that represent problems and solving those problems through manipulation of the expressions.
Where Do We Start?
We start developing Algebraic thinking in young children by investigating patterns and number relationships. In primary, young children learn that a pattern rule can be used to describe, extend and create repeating patterns. As children become more familiar with patterns they learn that patterns can be represented numerically through growing or shrinking patterns which can be represented by mathematical expressions.
When are Symbols and Variables Introduced?
Students in grade one and two begin by investigating situations where numbers remain the same or when numbers change. Gradually, in grade 2 they begin to learn how symbols can be used to represent quantities such as a placeholder in a growing pattern or to represent a quantity in a situation that varies. By junior grades, students are using symbols to represent variables in expressions or equations as they learn about equivalent relationships and how to evaluate algebraic expressions. By intermediate grades, students are using mathematical expressions to represent situations and to solve problems.
Resources and Tools
Solveme Mobiles - Solve clues that make the mobile balance by determining the weight of the shape
Splat Math - Write an equation to solve the image represent, then solve for the unknown value !
Polyad Algebra Tutorial - Digital Manipulatives for Algebra
Celebrating the Many Global Contributions to Mathematics
Throughout human history, people from many cultures and societies have contributed to the continuously developing understanding of math. As a part of each monthly newsletter, one of these many significant contributions will be shared in celebration of how diverse ways of knowing have shaped our mathematics today.
Did you know that symbolic algebra was first introduced by Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi? The word algebra comes from the title of his book sometimes called kitab Al-Jabr written about 1200 years ago.
Algebra involves the use of letters to represent unknown values or values that can change in an equation. It is useful in Business, Science, computer programming and a variety of other fields. It also helps develop logical thinking.