Algebra and the introduction of variables can be a challenging concept for many students. Using concrete materials can help students to get a ‘feel’ for what we are doing when we ask them to - collect like terms; manipulate an algebraic expression and to solve equations.
Concrete materials (or manipulatives) can be found in classrooms in the lower primary years but often disappear as students get older, giving students the impression that they are ‘babyish’ and that it is more ‘grown-up’ to manage without them. Algebra Tiles are a simple manipulative that can help develop students’ understanding and confidence with algebra, at many different levels.
In this course we will work through a sequence of lessons from adding and subtracting integers to completing the square. There will be short video demonstrations and explanations throughout.
This course is for all teachers of Mathematics with a particular emphasis on those teaching Years 5–10.
3.3.2 Proficient Level - Plan for and Implement Effective Teaching and Learning - Use teaching strategies: Select and use relevant teaching strategies to develop knowledge, skills, problem-solving, and critical and creative thinking.
Introduction
Welcome and Meet the Presenter
Course Outline
What are Algebra Tiles?
What do Algebra Tiles look like?
Making or Buying Algebra Tiles
Reflection Task - Introducing Algebra Tiles
The CRA Model
Introducing Algebra Tiles using the CRA model
AT and CRA demo
Integer Operations
The Area Model
Building Algebraic Expressions
Building Algebraic Expressions - Points to Note
Substitution
Reflection Task - Using Algebra Tiles in class
Australian Curriculum Links
Numberless Word Problems
Solving Linear Equations
Reflection Task - Numberless word problems and using Algebra Tiles
Australian Curriculum Links
Quadratic Expressions
The Area Model
Multiplying Two Linear Expressions
Factorising a Linear Expression
Factorising a Quadratic Expression
Reflection Task - Concrete or abstract?
Australian Curriculum Links
Exploring more Advanced Algebraic Concepts
Dividing A Quadratic Expression by a Linear Factor
Perfect Squares
Reflection Task - Advanced topics
Australian Curriculum Links
Takeaways
Reflection Task - Conclusion
References
Course Feedback
Completing Algebra Tiles - From Concrete to Abstract will contribute 4.5 hours of NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) Accredited PD in the priority area of Delivery and Assessment of NSW Curriculum/Early Years Learning Framework, addressing Standard Descriptor 3.3.2 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher in NSW.
Vicky Kennard
