Sunday, October 14, 2012

Teaching Algebraic Equations with Concrete Materials

My students had trouble understanding exactly what they were doing when they were solving equations.  Sure they could figure out the value of the missing number, but could they explain WHY? No.  So we did a simple, yet extremely effective, activity that really helped.

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Do you use any other concrete materials to help students understand algebra?
 
 
 

at

4 comments:

  1. Mrs. GarciaOctober 14, 2012 at 9:04 AM

    You are right....simple BUT effective! thanks a bunch for sharing. I need to remember that my kiddos need the concrete too as much as possible.
    thanks a bunch!
    4everateacher@

    ReplyDelete
  2. HeatherOctober 14, 2012 at 11:26 AM

    You're very welcome! I hope your students enjoy this activity as much as mine have :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. DonnaOctober 14, 2012 at 9:08 PM

    Algebra is so tough! Thanks for sharing. There's a cool Lucky Charms freebie at http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lucky-Math

    p.s. I Boo'd you, but couldn't find your e-mail address : )

    Young Daze in 5th Grade

    ReplyDelete
  4. HeatherOctober 15, 2012 at 2:52 PM

    Thanks for the freebie :) I'm on my way to check it out.

    ReplyDelete