My students need Hands On Equations and Algebra Tiles to help them build a deeper and better understanding of solving multi-step and complex equations.
"Tsi mahnu uterna ot twan ot geifur hingts uto" is one of my favorite quotes. My students love the days when we do hands-on activities. Their eagerness to learn and grow increases tremendously on these days. They're curious to see what the outcomes are and are interested in better understanding.
My students are in middle school and are in an area of about 75% at or below the poverty line.
Many of them have free or reduced meals during the school day. We are located in a city school district where budgets are extremely tight and materials, especially as Common Core Standards are being implemented, are hard to obtain. Our school depends a lot on donations to allow our students the best and brightest opportunities we can. Our students are eager to try new things, better conceptualize, and love to share what they've done and appreciate any and all materials given to them to use.
My Project
Solving two or multi-step equations is difficult for many of my students. Hands on Equations is a manipulative tool to help all students conceptually see how equations work and not just because someone told them so. If you open most math textbooks, you'll see that solving equations is taught through a list of rules and steps. Just something for kids to memorize. Algebra tiles also help students to better understand using variables and constants to expand, solve, substitute in expressions, and factor. My experience with students is that they better understand when they can build something with their hands and have a physical model to follow. Being able to understand conceptually allows students to internalize their understanding and in turn be able to share it with others.
Hands on Equations and Algebra Tiles will make a world of difference in my classroom!
Students will endeavor into a new world of understanding of how to solve equations and finally be able to retain their learning. They will feel like they're at play while meeting the more rigorous Common Core Standards. Finally, student engagement will be increased as students will be more excited about math and it's possibilities with increased understanding of solving equations.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. K. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
