Planting the Seeds of Algebra, 3-5

Book excerpt: Give your students a foundation of algebra for math success – now and in the future! Algebra is not something to be feared, but something to be embraced with a sense of wonder. Planting the Seeds of Algebra, 3-5, introduces algebra as an accessible way of seeing the world that is necessary to our students’ futures. Students and teachers must become friendly with algebraic foundations, as they have increasingly become the gateway to careers in the STEM fields. Monica Neagoy empowers teachers with theoretical and practical ways to introduce Algebra to 3-5 grade students, making vital connections to concepts they will encounter in middle school and beyond. You’ll discover Four explorations to help you weave key algebraic ideas into everyday mathematics Step-by-step lessons from real classrooms that will guide you in teaching concepts and in establishing their relevance and applicability New teaching methods that break down difficult algebraic concepts and build a critical foundation for higher math Awaken new awareness and change attitudes by sowing the seeds for a vibrant, useful, and rich experience with mathematics. "While reading this book I experienced the sense of wonder and aha moments alongside the students themselves. This book will move your faculty to new depths of understanding about mathematics and will instill the passion to explore a myriad of algebraic concepts." — Bob Weiman, Director St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School "She’s done it again! Monica Neagoy has authored another book that deftly presents important foundations of algebra while celebrating mathematics through carefully crafted explorations, all of which include student and teacher vignettes and comments about the mathematics they have learned and are teaching. Wow. When I read this book I felt like I was in a classroom!" — Francis (Skip) Fennell, McDaniel College Past President of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics