Introducing 

Prezi AI.

Your new presentation assistant.

Refine, enhance, and tailor your content, source relevant images, and edit visuals quicker than ever before.

Loading…
Transcript

Algebra for Young Children

Patterns

  • Algebra is the generalization of the ideas of arithmetic where unknown values and variables can be found to solve problems.
  • Children need a solid foundation of algebraic thinking.
  • Supported by the NAEYC and NCTM

Patterns are the cornerstone of algebraic thinking. Simple patterns like "day, night, day, night" or "clap, clap, tap, clap, clap, tap" are great intros to patterns. Later, the students will move on to Numerical patterns. Blocks are recommended to show different numerical patterns.

Mathematical Situations and Structures

Why teach algebra so early?

This is another major component to algebra. Important concepts include discussing equal/not equal, same/different, more/less, and balanced/not balanced. Examples of real world scenarios can also be discussed. Scales can be great tools for the students to display how much they understand.

  • Typically, students who took algebra generally proceed to higher education. Those who don't will often face difficult obstacles in further academic pursuits.
  • The "Algebra for All" policy was implemented for this problem.
  • "Algebra in the Early Years" may be a proper successor.

Change

It is important to understand that most things change over time, and such changes can be described mathematically. Qualitative change can be where things get smaller, taller, or fuller. Trees get taller over time, water buckets get fuller in the rain, and mathematics can be used to describe the change. For the students, this can be demonstrated with a ball and a ramp. As time goes, the ball gets farther down the ramp. Another example can demonstrated with an hour glass. Students can predict what will happen as time goes by.

National Algebra Standard

1) Patterns

2) Mathematical situations and structures

3) Models of quantitative relationships

4) Change

Conclusion

"If early childhood educators are to enhance children's outcomes, encouraging algebraic thinking in the early years is essential." Building the foundation is necessary to open future gates and remove barriers to academic pursuits. This will help prepare them for the opportunities that await them.

Models of Quantitative Relationships

Quantitative relationships involve asking the students questions like "How many eyes in a group of four people?" and observing the methods they use to solve the problem. Provide tools such as counters, plates, pencils, paper, snacks, etc. Then ask what if it was three or five people. This is one example of quantitative relationships in a real world context. Other examples are the tires on cars, buttons on a controller, and sides of certain shapes.

Algebra in the Early Years

Improving the World's Education

References

Taylor-Cox, J. (2003). Algebra in the Early Years? Yes! Retrieved from http://www.naeyc.org/files/yc/file/200301/Algebra.pdf

Learn more about creating dynamic, engaging presentations with Prezi