Introducing the Concept of Algebra

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Activity Author
Lubna Naseem
Duration
45mins
Objective: Key Core Life Skill to be developed
Critical thinking, Problem Solving
Objective: Key Learning Domains to be developed
Remember, Understand, Application
Implemented this in classroom

Introducing the Concept of Algebra
Objectives to be achieved
Write expressions that record operations with numbers and with letters standing for numbers. Evaluate expressions at specific values for their variables
Underlying Concept behind this activity
Use variables to represent numbers and write expressions when solving a real-world or mathematical problem; understand that a variable can represent an unknown number, or, depending on the purpose at hand, any number in a specified set
Resources required for conducting the activity
3 types of colored chart paper, scissors, paper and pens
Class Activity Details

Step1: Cut colored chart paper 6by 6 inches n dimensions and make sets of 3 cards of each color. Also add + – and = signs in that set. (f you don’t have time then you can ask children to make these sets from home. But be specific on the colors you want. every one shud have same set of color cards n class)

Step 2: Distribute the  sets along with the signs to the students n pairs and set the stage for the activity as quiz

Step 3: Begin the class with the following sum on the blackboard:

2+4= ?

3+ ? = 10

Once children have solved the question then begin the quiz using the colored cards

For example: Write on the black board

Green      Blue              Yellow

  1. Green + Green = 8
  2. Yellow- Blue= 16
  3. Yellow -Green= 14
  4. What is the value of Green, Yellow and Blue.    Give answers n the order of the color asked .give five mins to solve the questions. in case they are able to solve the question then ask them to explain how they did it.
  5. For children who did not get the method you can explain them the process again. You can create more such examples n the classroom and ask children to solve them.
  6. Practice sheets with such examples s given n the section below.

 

 

Practice worksheets
https://labyrinth.thinkport.org/www/educators/resources/lessons/lounge_grade6.pdf
Uploaded File
Brainstorming questions asked in class
Why does the sign change when taken from the left side to the right side of the = or vice versa.
Evaluation parameters to assess the understanding of the students
Accurate, Clearly explained, Complete, Precise
Impromptu changes made if any during activity, reasons

Any suggestions for other teachers while implementing this activity in classroom.
algebra s a new concept thats ntroucedi n ths class. Children should be made comfortable with the concept and understand how to apply for bigger numbers
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