algebra
-
Prerequisites for Algebra – An Illusion
The orange circle on the right looks bigger, but in fact both are the same size. The deception is based on the additional sensory input. Similarly, the prerequisites for taking algebra are often considered to be basic skills. This is largely an illusion. I routinely encounter students who are referred to me for help as…
-
K-12 Math Education is a Line of Dominoes
Critical dominoes in math education start falling in 6th and 7th grade with the last ones falling in college. If you have a student who struggles with math and is entering or returning to middle school, now is the time to intervene to avoid more serious issues related to math education in the future. If…
-
Math Videos for Middle School and Algebra 1
I am rolling out a series of videos on math topics from middle school and algebra 1. Here is a link to the folder with the accompanying handouts. This post will be updated periodically. Let me know if your school is covering a topic that is challenging and students would benefit from an alternative presentation.…
-
Concepts vs Skills – Need Both
In general math is taught by focusing on the steps. Conduct a Google search for solving equations and you will see the steps presented (below). You need a video to help your student understand solving and you typically get a presenter standing at the board talking through the examples. (I’ve posted on my approach to…
-
Introduction to Solving Equations
I introduce solving equations by building off of the visual presentation used to introduce equations. The two photos below show an example of handouts I use. Below these two photos I offer an explanation of how I use these handouts. First I develop an understanding of a balanced equation vis-a-vis an unbalance equation using the…
-
Rate of Change in Real Life
-
Introduction to Equations – (Meaning Making)
This is a meaning making approach to introducing equations. I will walk through the parts shown in the photo in the space below this photo. (A revised edition of this handout will be used in a video on this topic.) First I explain the difference between an expression (no =) and an equation (has =).…
-
Videos Making Algebra Accessible
Below is a screen shot of a video in a series of videos that provide instruction on algebra topics. The videos are designed to make algebra more accessible for almost all students. The presentations include the following instructional strategies A focus on conceptual understanding (not just teaching steps) Connection to prior knowledge Breaking the math…
-
Graphing Linear Functions
Graphing linear functions and the underlying concept are challenging for many students. The video below shows a scaffolded approach to teaching how to graph. This approach also addresses the concept of the graph as a visual representation of all possible solutions (see photo above). Students often do not realize that the line is actually comprised…
-
Function Notation
