Algebra in Pre-K? by J.M. Holland

Yes, as many pre-k teachers know, algebra starts in pre-k. We introduce much of the foundation level mathematical concepts necessary to be successful in Algebra. And, with the push to offer and even in some states require algebra in 8th grade, pre-k finds it might be even more necessary as a means to achieve future success in math class. My TLN colleague Anthony Cody offered this:

According to this report by Gregory Woods,

Poor academic performance is the single strongest school-related predictor of dropping out.

So it would seem that it is critically important to not only give students the opportunity to take Algebra, but also to make sure they are adequately prepared for it. Because if they do not succeed, they will have failed the rigorous challenge we have placed before them, and this will increase the likelihood that they will not finish high school.

And this is where things get complicated.

 

I think Anthony has hit variable X right on the head. High standards are great if kids are prepared to meet them and the issue of preparation begins with us. Web 2.0 tools give us a little help.

One of the Key aspects of success in Algebra is the ability to recognize patterns. When you boil it down to those terms, well, I doubt there is a pre-k teacher in this country who hasn't taught patterns! We usually start with beads or blocks - definitely with manipulatives - but sometimes the "tools" we use can distract from the goal. The National Council for the Teaching of Mathematics offers some great material on their website, as well as the standards to provide guidance. Here is a super pattern activity from the NCTM E-Examples. You can generate repeated patterns with this pattern machine. Check it out with your students. I guarantee at least one "Wow!"

To get the most out of the tool experiment a bit before you show the kids. Notice that you can change the number of blocks in the pattern by clicking the arrow for pattern units up or down. If you click on the red block you can change its' color by choosing one of the other colors. You can also click on the blank blocks to choose color.

When you get ready to try this, ask your students prediction questions like, "What does this machine do?" I am sure you will get some interesting responses. Then move on to, "What will it look like when ..."  Most of all, have fun with this 21st Century learning tool.

Comments

[sue]

The applet doesn't seem to work in Firefox 3.0. Works in Safari.

[J.M. Holland]

Hi Sue,
Thanks for leaving your comment.

I use firefox and it worked fine on my pc.
Maybe this is a Firefox-Mac issue?

I think it requires java installed. Have you updated firefox or your java engine recently?

Has anyone else had trouble with the applet?