WHY IMPROVE THE TEACHING OF ALGEBRA

The author is Master Teacher Concepcion, Tarlac

JAIME L. VITUG

Teaching Algebra among high school students is one good opportunity for us to come up with strategies on how to successfully impart the knowledge. The significant role that Algebra plays in developing mathematical skills of students is a strong motivation to accept this challenge.

As a subject that requires a lot of abstract thinking and one that focuses on the use of symbols to explain mathematical relationships, it is a challenging new skill for students. As a frontline mathematics subject, it plays a crucial role in determining success of students in their post-high school life and in developing workers for technical and scientific jobs.

A proficiency in the subject enhances one’s logical reasoning and the ability to handle multiple representations expressed in equations, graphs and symbols. Thus, a crucial skill in advanced mathematics courses.

According to research the teaching of Algebra can be improved through three closely related themes: First, developing a deeper understanding of algebra which means moving the students beyond superficial mathematics and encourage them to make connections between algebraic concepts and the procedures present in problems.

Second, promoting process oriented thinking which means moving beyond the focus on the correct final answer to algebra problems and promote understanding of the processes involved in arriving to the answer. Asking questions such as what decisions, steps made to solve the problem. Was it a good strategy? Are there other ways to solve the problem?

Third, encouraging precise communications which means providing opportunities for students to use precise mathematical language in talking and reasoning with mathematical procedures, concepts, and strategies. To develop further mathematical understanding of students, we are encouraged to ask questions such as “how would you describe the problem or strategy using precise mathematical language.”

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I at Benigno S. Aquino National High School in