Week #7 Reflection

This week in our mathematics course we focused on patterning and algebraic expressions, units which become integral towards a student’s overall success in their academic career.  Students are introduced to these concepts at a young age for they lay the foundation for problem solving and recognizing changing number values. An individual’s ability to recognize and describe patterning expressions becomes fundamental towards building their comprehension of mathematics as well strengthens their ability to solve algebraic equations. Patterns are represented in a multitude of ways and can range in rhythm, design and simplicity.  For example younger grades begin their studies by examining patterns, such as the one demonstrated in figure one, to determine the rhyming scheme. As the student progresses into a higher grade level they move onto more thought provoking expressions, such as the one presented in figure two, where they are expected to recognize the relation between the figures and create an algebraic expression.

Figure 1

 Figure 2

Similar to fractions the largest struggle a student may face when dealing with patterning and algebraic expressions is that an equation is represented in an unfamiliar way. Letters are used to represent a value of a certain expression which may be confusing for some who are unable to gain a concrete understanding of the concept. Our classroom discussion focused on the importance of providing different manipulates and visual aids for students in order to strengthen their comprehension. When educators provide students with the tools to develop they encourage and support their ability to succeed academically. Algebra is not an easy concept to grasp for students therefore as an educator I realize the importance of working from the bottom up to develop and strengthen an individual’s skill level.

While searching online for different resources and games I came across one which stood out to me. The game was taken from the website MathFox which provides a variety of interactive online games for students varying in age, grade and skill level. The one which I selected dealt with algebraic expressions however presented very basic questions at the beginning. Each time a question was rewarded correctly students gained one hundred points and had the opportunity to “attack” the fellow pirate ship. This game would be ideal for students in the grade 4/5 level or those who struggle to grasp the fundamental elements of what algebra entails. I really enjoyed this game as I did not feel rushed nor pressed to finish a question within a certain time frame, I had a chance to think about what was being asked of me and to confirm my answer.  Games become an integral component to ensuring academic success and growth within students as they strengthen their skills by demonstrating problems in a “fun” way.

As a student my greatest struggle with mathematics was creating and solving algebraic expressions. It was something I was not familiar with, and often found it difficult to find the relationship between two dissimilar numbers. Through my own personal experiences, the readings provided as well our classroom discussion I have learned and better understood the importance of teaching students the “basic” skills of patterning in order to improve their understanding of algebra. If students do not have ab understanding of the preliminary skills it is illogical to expect them to understand the more complex, complicated units.