MPI - Day 5: Algebraic Thinking

Today's focus was understanding Algebra. We looked at the following areas:

1. Early algebraic thinking
2. Symbols and Expressions
3. Number Properties
4. Equations, Patterns and Relationships
5. Variables and Linear relationships

Today's learning highlighted for me the importance of developing algebraic thinking in learners, guiding them from basic pattern recognition to more complex generalisations and equation solving.

This got me thinking about how important it is to use a scaffolded approach - where learners progress through stages and can deepen their understanding of patterns and relationships. This gradual progression is crucial in helping learners transition from concrete to abstract mathematical thinking, just like in other maths domains, but in my opinion it's even more important. This is because algebra can be so much more scary for learners who aren't used to the vocab or used to the notation of algebra.

Once again, the integration of real-life applications and visual aids are needed (even more so than basic number examples) to help enhance comprehension and making abstract ideas more tangible for learners.

I have also been reflecting during this afternoon on teaching variables to kids here at PES. It got me thinking on the struggle they may have with the shift from arithmetic to algebraic thinking, so patience and continuous reinforcement will be key here. Especially breaking down the idea that a variable is just a symbol that can represent different values and why we might need this or find it helpful.

We'll also need to encourage learners to explore and experiment with variables in different contexts, allowing them to see how this might be used in their real life. 

If I was teaching this to a group of kids for the first time again I would be making sure to regularly assess understanding through discussions and practical examples in order to see if I could break down misconceptions or confusion. 

Today was thought provoking, especially the last 2 sessions and I look forward to helping teachers to teach algebra with their learners!