Algebra is using symbols to represent variables and missing factors in equations and manipulating them in such a way to arrive at a solution. It's about finding the unknown of a variable or putting actual life variables into equations and then solving them. So often, textbooks go straight to the rules, procedures, and formulas, forgetting that these are real-life problems. Making algebra meaningful and visual is a game-changer in conceptually understanding algebra. That is why I like to start with a supplementary program called Hands-on-Equation as early as third grade. Hands-on-Equation makes algebra visual. Using algebra tiles is also helpful. Once students understand that algebra is a puzzle to be solved algebra becomes fun! Algebra is so important. Teachers, parents, and students alike try to just get through Algebra, but it is essential that students take the time to really understand it. Algebra is the backbone of all the math ahead: geometry, trigonometry, and even calculus.