Research in Algebra: Algebra Readiness in the Elementary Classroom

By Dr. David Chard and Cassandra Hatfiled

In our session, we explored three big ideas in algebraic thinking for elementary students (1) arithmetic as a context for algebraic thinking (2) equations and (3)functional thinking. Throughout the presentation classroom practices of mini lessons, using multiple representations, modeling with a double number line, and providing students with activities that allow for generalizations were discussed.

• Think about your own practice of listening. What do you hear in children's thinking that you might be able to use in ways that could deepen algebraic thinking?
• Think about your own daily classroom practice. Where do you see opportunities for algebraic thinking?
• What are some concepts that you think kids should explore, make conjectures, and develop generalizations about? (ex: prime and composite numbers ~ factors should be explored more instead of just teaching the two words and moving on expecting students to remember the definitions.)

Reference:
Blanton, M., Levi, L., Crites, T., Doughterty, B.J. (2011). Developing essential understanding of algebraic thinking: Grades 3 – 5. Reston, VA: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics