Start of Mathletics 2010
"The language of arithmetic focuses on answers while the language of algebra focuses on relationships." ~ M. MacGregor & K. Stacey
Welcome back! I am excited to be back in the classroom and in my role as the lead math teacher at Pine Street School. I will continue to provide professional development for our staff, in addition to providing enrichment opportunities for our students.
During this second year the focus is on algebraic thinking across the grades. While most of us first encountered algebra when we were in high school, developing algebraic thinking has become a priority in today's elementary math curriculum. Learning to work with patterns in the early grades helps students develop this type of thinking, which is foundational for working with more abstract mathematics in higher grades.
"Mathematics is the science and language of patterns. Thinking about patterns helps children make sense of mathematics. They learn that mathematics is not a set of unrelated facts and procedures; instead, recognizing and working with patterns helps young children predict what will happen, talk about relationships, and see connections between mathematics concepts and their world." (Copley)
A second big idea in algebraic thinking is variables and equations. This strand ensures that students understand the meaning of the equal sign, the meanings of the four operations (+, -, x, ÷) and to represent problems using symbols and variables.
You can support your child with algebraic thinking by:
- Encouraging your child to look for patterns in your home and talk about them. Talk about how you use patterns in your daily life. (tiles, quilts, clothing, etc.)
- Talking about similarities and differences
- Talking about how you use charts/tables or spreadsheets in your work
Further information will be communicated in the newsletter throughout the year. Look forward as well to a fun filled Parent Evening this fall.
Cheryl Hawryluk
Updated: September 8, 2010
