Planting the Seeds of Algebra, PreK–2

Monica Neagoy - Monica Neagoy Mathematics Consulting Services

Foreword by Jennifer Bay Williams

Other Titles in:
Critical Thinking Skills | Elementary Teaching Methods | Mathematics

April 2012 | 208 pages | Corwin

Help young minds explore algebraic concepts

Algebra is the gateway to higher education, and preparing students to grasp algebraic concepts increases their opportunities to succeed. This book shows teachers how to create a strong foundation in algebra for very young children. Using in-depth math "explorations," the author unpacks—step by step—the hidden connections to higher algebra. Each exploration contains an elegantly simple grade-banded lesson (on addition, subtraction, patterns, and odd and even numbers), followed by a discussion of the algebra connections in the lesson, as well as suggestions for additional problems to explore. Throughout, readers will find:

Clear explanations of algebraic connections
Specific strategies for teaching the key ideas of algebra
Lesson modifications for older or younger students
An array of age-appropriate problems, games, and lessons

Planting the seeds of Algebra, PreK–2 helps teachers foster mathematical habits of mind in students such as critical thinking, problem solving, adaptability, agility, communication, curiosity, and imagination. Growth in these ways of thinking and doing will transfer to other areas of education and life—raising the bar and challenging students to aspire.

Available Formats

ISBN: 9781412996600	Paperback	Suggested Retail Price: $42.95	Bookstore Price: $34.36
ISBN: 9781544331034	Electronic Version	Suggested Retail Price: $39.00	Bookstore Price: $39.00

Should you need additional information or have questions regarding the HEOA information provided for this title, including what is new to this edition, please email sageheoa@sagepub.com. Please include your name, contact information, and the name of the title for which you would like more information. For information on the HEOA, please go to http://ed.gov/policy/highered/leg/hea08/index.html.

Foreword by Jennifer Bay-Williams

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Introduction

Exploration I. Addition: Beyond Just Memorizing Addition Facts

1. Making 7 - The Lesson (Grades PreK-K)

2. Behind Making 7 - Algebra Connections

3. Beyond Making 7 - More Problems to Explore

Exploration II. Subtraction: More Than Just "Take Away"

4. Sticker Stickler - The Lesson (Grades 1-2)

5. Behind Sticker Stickler - Algebra Connections

6. Beyond Sticker Stickler - More Problems to Explore

Exploration III. Patterns and Functions: What's the Connection?

7. Patterns of Cubes - The Lesson (Grade 2)

8. Behind Patterns of Cubes - Algebra Connections

9. Beyond Patterns of Cubes - More Problems to Explore

Exploration IV. Odd and Even Numbers: Beyond the Last-Digit Rule

10. Double Deckers - A Math-Night Presentation

11. Final Thoughts

References

Index

Key features

Through the examination of four explorations, Planting the Seeds of Algebra, provides details for how algebraic thinking can be effectively incorporated into the teaching and learning of PreK-2 mathematics. Key ideas of algebra are weaved into these explorations, such as the difference and connection between variable and unknown, equality and equivalence; expressions and equations. Also, the relationship between patterns and functions, functions and algebra, and consequently patterns and algebra will be clarified.
Each chapter offers profound discussions on topics such as number properties, basic facts, computation, patterns, functions, math games, and so on, all of which are of direct concern to early elementary school teachers.
Each chapter contains a section that revisits the different stages of the lesson and discussion, bringing to light the connections to algebra that teachers are sometimes unaware of. The purpose of this section is therefore to guide teachers to become mindful of the rich potential of laying a solid algebra foundation through the mathematics they already teach every day.