Is Pre-Algebra A Bridge Or A Barrier to Algebra Success?

Algebra, the cornerstone of mathematics, unlocks powerful problem-solving skills. But before diving into the world of variables and equations, some students benefit from a preparatory course: pre-algebra. Let's explore who needs this bridge and why it can be a valuable stepping stone, not a barrier, to success in algebra.

Not all students require pre-algebra. Those with a strong foundation in arithmetic – understanding operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages – might be well-equipped to tackle algebra directly. However, some students might benefit from pre-algebra.

If a student has trouble with certain basic math skills such as calculations,  conversions between fractions, decimals, and percentages, or a lack of fluency in applying arithmetic operations.  If they have weak problem-solving skills like identifying key information, struggling to break down problems, or are unable to develop a logical approach to solving them. Or if they have an attitude towards math that hinders learning or evening engaging with new concepts, they might need pre-algebra. 

Students who demonstrate that they have a strong foundation in arithmetic where they have a confidence and are accurate in performing calculations and an ability to manipulate numbers.  They have the ability to analyze problems, identify relevant information, and they can develop strategies to find solutions.  They have a genuine interest in learning new math concepts and a willingness to tackle challenges.  These are the ones who are ready to move straight into algebra.

Pre-algebra shouldn't be seen as a roadblock but as a bridge. It provides a targeted environment to solidify foundational skills that are crucial for success in algebra. A pre-algebra class can help fill in gaps. It allows teachers to identify and address specific areas of weakness in arithmetic, ensuring students have a strong foundation before moving on. Pre-algebra courses often emphasize problem-solving techniques, teaching students how to break down problems, develop logical approaches, and build confidence in their ability to tackle challenges.  It helps build mathematical confidence by helping students master foundational skills that fosters a sense of accomplishment and reduces math anxiety, creating a more positive foundation for learning algebra.

Think of pre-algebra as a bridge not a barrier. Ultimately, the decision of whether a student needs pre-algebra should be made on an individual basis, considering their current skillset and learning style. Pre-algebra serves a vital role, not by holding students back, but by equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in algebra and beyond. By building a strong foundation and fostering a positive learning experience, pre-algebra paves the way for a successful journey into the fascinating world of mathematics.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great weekend.

DJ Pre-Algebra Free

Found this program which is the free version of DJ Pre-Algebra.  It comes with only chapter 1 with 30 problems.  Chapter one only covers the basics of adding and subtracting signed numbers.  The student is given a problem such as E = 1 + 5  and the student chooses the number of bubbles with the letter E that corresponds with the correct answer.  This is not something I would use with my high school students.  I might consider using it for a much younger group of students who are just starting out with signed numbers.  The problems are a bit too easy and there  is no activity as a reward to make them want to strive towards something.  I think that having a number line on the side to help students see how signed numbers work might make it easier for students to really learn the material.  I would guess that this is good for 5th or 6th grade.

Barron's Pre-algebra part two

I gave some more thought to the complaint given by reviewers that this app does not identify wrong answers and I realized that most of the time in real life, we do not have answers available to check.  So why not use this app as a way to help students become accustomed to doing the work, checking it and if you are not sure, check your answer with other students.  This is a way of fostering cooperation, checking work, etc.  

this app is primarily for students to work on order of operations and practice using both positive and negative numbers.  It also has problems that use a double negative. Problems start easy and work to the more complex.  I still have to figure out the games you are allowed to play after meeting the 80% mastery level.   

If all else fails have the students show all their work.  Tomorrow, I will get around to reporting on Barron's algebra app.

Barron's Pre-Algebra app

I am back from traveling and now have real access to the Internet.  I was searching the App Store for free apps and found Barron's painless pre-algebra app.  It had a rating of three stars and no reviews newer than 2011.  I figured that in two years they had time to improve the app.

Well, the app has three levels of problems.  Each level has 20 multiple choice questions and you need to get 80% to move on to the next level. There is a game associated with each level but it is only accessible after you get the 80%.  The problems are good and increase in difficulty and complexity.  The bad thing is that the quiz does not provide any feedback to tell you which problems you missed.  This is the same complaint reviewers had two years ago and this has not been resolved.  The idea is good but the implantation leaves a lot to be desired. This is a free app and if you use it for practice with students working out each problem until they reach the 80%, it does give students some good practice.

 Tomorrow, I will take a look at Barron's algebra app.

More on centers

I have been giving some serious thought to using iPads with centers.  I have a book with printed instructions for using centers in Algebra I and ll, geometry and pre-algebra.  I can scan the various activities into PDF form.  If I have an app on the iPad that allows the students to read and write the answers on the file, they can then send it off to me so that I can grade it.  By using centers, I can increase their group activities and hopefully decrease their dependence on me. I look forward to trying this.  If I store the pdf files in the school wiki, I can use a QR code to send them to the proper page, provide instructions and any additional information.  I am trying to change the main focus from teacher oriented to student oriented.

Hands on equations lite

When I first downloaded this app and opened it I was a bit disappointed with it because it only had a video for each of the three levels.  All other functions were locked and you have to pay for an upgrade if you want access to all the functions.  After some thought, I decided it is not a bad thing.  I watched the the first video and liked the way it used a pawn and a balance scale to explain solving for the variable.  This gives students a new way to view the process and it is a way to differentiate my instruction.  In addition, I can have students rematch the video as many times as they need.  Hmmm I could use this app as part of a center.
I know they use centers in elementary school but not as much in high school.  I just realized I could use many of these apps as part of a centers set up.  I have a classroom set of iPads that I could set up into centers using the app.  I would have to arrange for instructions that would have students do more than just watch the video.  They might have to answer questions, do some of the problems out of the video.
If you have used mobile devices as part of centers, I would love to hear from you.

Algeboats lite

Found a nice little game called Algeboats lite for students to practice evaluating one and two step equations.  There are boats with equations such as x-3.  On the dock are four loads each with numbers you could substitute in for x and there are four flags at the top with the answer to the problem based on which value of x you choose.  Once the value for the variable is substituted and the correct answer is put on the flag pole, the boat moves away. There are three levels, rowboat, speedboat and yacht and each level has three sublevels which are unlocked as the first sublevel is completed.  The student can get a fair bit of practice.  The only thing that might frustrate students is that the loads and the flags do not always move as directed and it can sometimes take a while before moving.
I mention games because my students love playing games and this is something that could be done when there is time left in the class after they have completed the assignments or done after the weekly quiz on Friday or perhaps to obtain an exit pass.
Games provide possibilities for students, especially the lower performing ones, to practice in a fun and safe environment.

Factoring

As I was working on deciding exactly what my students should know in each class I teach, I realized that factoring is extremely important in more than algebraic fractions.  I discovered a nice game on prime numbers and prime factorization that also shows factoring in a way students can see how prime numbers are used as factors.  It is Prime Smash by Panasonic  and Risupia.  This game has three levels where balls bounce up one at at time and you decide if they are prime numbers or composite.  If they are prime you tap and if they are composite you swipe the number to split it up, tap a prime or swipe a composite and you break it down till it has been totally factored. Sometimes the program splits a number into a prime and a composite or two composite numbers.  You have to think quickly when you play this game.
It has a nice fun facts sections that defines prime numbers, defines twin primes, shows emirps and Palindrmic primes, and talks a bit about how to distinguish prime numbers and how they are used for incription.  This is a free app and a really nice one.
I am having fun on the easy level learning to play the game.  I've tried the medium level but its a bit fast for me quite yet.  This game is actually lots of fun once you get the hang of using it and I can see having students play this game on a regular bases.

Middle school math 7

I downloaded the grade 7 free app by the same people who made yesterday's app.  The first four topics are free and include adding and multiplying negative numbers, absolute value and order of operations.  Each topic has three levels and it keeps track of your score and your time.  Again the student can send results to the teacher. Both apps offer the student a chance to reset s ores and do the whole level again. In this game, the student helps the monkey move down a ladder, stopping every so often to pose a question.  I think this app is much more appropriate for middle school, pre-algebra, and lower performing algebra students.  I plan to have my algebra one students play these games over the first week or two of school to help them review after a summer off from school.  I hope my students like the app.