Addition, Problem Solving, & Algebra
Brief Description: Even young students can learn the basics of
problem solving and algebra. This lesson features the Suremath site with
its problem solving techniques for students. The goal is for students to
learn how to solve math problems using easy examples and then transfer
this knowledge to the solving of more difficult problems.
Grade Level and Subject: Grades 2 up, Addition and unknowns
Equipment/Materials: computer or computers with connections
to the Internet. If connections are not available during classtime, teachers
may use web capturing software to have the site available for the lesson.
Computer projection system is optional.
Before the Lesson: Go to the Suremath site and review what will
be covered with your students. Make a bookmark for From
Addition to Algebra <http://www2.hawaii.edu/suremath/the3Rs1.html>
Objectives:
- to teach students a step by step pattern for problem solving
- to help students understand that "letters" can take the place
of numbers.
- to help students better understand how to deal with unknown numbers.
- to learn about equations and how to do what they "tell you."
- to give students practice in problem solving.
- to give students greater confidence in their ability to solve math
problems.
Procedures:
1. Talk with students about problem solving. Ask them how they feel
when they see unknowns or letters in place of numbers in math problems.
Do they welcome the opportunity to figure out what the unknowns or letters
are or do they worry that the problems will be too difficult for them?
2. Tell the students that they are going to go online to learn more
about unknowns and subtraction. Have them as a class, in small groups,
or individually use the bookmark:
From Addition
to Algebra <http://www2.hawaii.edu/suremath/the3Rs1.html>
to find the Suremath site and its section on addition.
3. Help them use the information by doing the first problem together.
Show them how to find the answer and how to compare it with theirs.
4. Explain how, as it says at Suremath, that all you do is to do what
the equations tell you. Have them explain what some sample equations tell
them.
5. Let them try more of the Suremath addition problems.
6. Review with the students what they have learned.
7. For homework, have them show a sample equation to their parents and
explain to their parents how the equation tells them just what to do. Let
them tell their parents that they are doing algebra.
Enrichments/Enhancements: Have the students make up some of their
own addition problems featuring unknowns. Let them show their problems
on the chalkboard and have other students volunteer to solve the problems.
Suggestions for Parents: The Suremath site is a valuable place
for parents to get ideas for helping their children with math and problem
solving. Try the different sections of the site to locate material appropriate
to the age and ability levels of your children.
