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Why Teaching Algebra is Important
In my preparation and creating of this digital tool, I have been in touch with a few teaching professionals for their advice and input:
Sheila Singh, Head of Department for Mathematics - Tamaki College
Priscilla Allan, Experienced High School Mathematics Teacher and Mathematics Specialist - Ruapotaka School
Anusha Soupen, Head of Department for Mathematics - Papakura High School
Why is it important for Year 9 students to have a basic understanding of algebra before coming to high school?
Sheila It will be helpful if students arrive in Year 9 with the following Curriculum Learning Objectives Met:
Communicate and interpret simple additive strategies, using words, diagrams and symbols
Drawing “make 5” on the number line to show how the strategy works. Eg 4 + 7 = 5 + 5 + 1 = 10 + 1 = 11
Using materials to illustrate strategy
Using = as “equal to”.
Idea of a variable
Using the empty number line
Place value ideas are still developing so keep numbers small.
Additive strategies of equal additions, compensation, doubling, halving.
Problem solving in context
Priscilla: In my experience as a Secondary School Mathematics Teacher (from 2004 till 2019) I have seen many students struggle with algebra. The students who come to secondary school with no recollection of “using letters in maths” can become very anxious when they see their peers are comfortable and confident with them. This anxiety makes it harder to learn, and catching up can seem overwhelming. Algebra is the language of mathematics, and languages take time to learn.
Anusha: The critical skills students learn in algebra can be applied throughout their high school journey and beyond. These critical skills include problem solving, logical reasoning and patterns.
What relevance would you see in Year 9 student’s starting at your school with a basic level achievement in algebra?
Sheila: Confidence to start off Number and Algebra at Level 3/4 of the Curriculum, ie. the following LOs:
Record and interpret simple additive and multiplicative, using words, diagrams and symbols, with an understanding of equality. Generalise the properties of addition and subtraction with whole numbers.
Connect members of sequential patterns with their ordinal position and use tables, graphs, and diagrams to find relationships between successive elements of number and spatial patterns.
Form and solve simple linear equations
Use graphs, tables and rules to describe linear relationships found in number and spatial patterns.
Priscilla: They are in a good position to do well in NCEA Algebra, as they can build on this base and thrive in class. The cognitive load will be reduced as they have prior knowledge. Success leads to success. Without strong algebra skills students will struggle with mathematics. Calculus requires solid algebra skills, hence, arriving at secondary school without the basics puts students at a disadvantage.
Anusha: When learning Algebra, students start to also learn how to use logic to solve a problem. This enables them to better understand how numbers can work together when creating and solving equations, or how numbers can be linked to form patterns.
Teacher's final comments regarding Algebro's Learning Site
Sheila: ... [I] am pleased to see your initiative to help bridge the gap between Year 8 and 9 in Number and Algebra (the foundation for a successful pathway in Mathematics).
Priscilla: Is there anything else you would like to comment on regarding this project? I am impressed with your dedication and expertise. You are making a real difference. I really enjoyed seeing you run the tables warm up game with your class, as they have clearly gained confidence and were really enjoying the activity. Likewise, the video session I saw was wonderful. Seeing the students embrace algebraic manipulation and solving equations is pure magic.
Anusha: I am currently prepping my Year 11 students for the NCEA Algebra external examination, but I have several students who are unable (for various reasons) to be entered in these examinations. I have shared your site with them so that they can also work on Algebra, albeit at their own pace. They have been super engaged and focused, and have really enjoyed the videos. The site has given them the opportunity to access algebra at a foundational level, which many of them have never really come to grips with prior to this year.