Introduction to Algebra

Algebra is the Language of Mathematics

Algebra is one of the most important and interesting topics in middle school mathematics. Here children understand the use of unknowns, with practical application in their daily lives. Experience of understanding algebra at school goes a long way in the kind of liking/hatred one will develop as an adult towards mathematics. So it is very important for the teacher to first understand the concept and help students interpret the same.

There are 3 important things I should understand as a teacher when preparing to introduce algebra
1. Algebra is the generalization or abstraction of arithmetic.
2. It is clearly the pure language of mathematics, which requires knowledge of  the mathematical vocabulary (symbols and variables) and grammar (algebraic rules)
3. Algebra is a tool for mathematical modeling (solving real world problems)

The effective way to introduce algebra at middle school is by recollecting something students already know (interlinking subjects) or using an activity.

Algebra has been an inevitable part, in the growth of different civilizations. Following is a mind map of the respective contributions.

(The teacher might or might not elaborate on the different contributions. But can give it as group assignments to initiate research/ exploratory learning among the students)

(Click on the image to enlarge.)