Students can use geometric representations of numbers as a way to explore algebraic ideas. With the help of these representations, students can think about the relations among the numbers, express them using their own words, and represent them with letters. The activities discussed here can stimulate students to try to find various ways of solving…

Geometric pattern tasks can be a useful tool for developing students' capacities to reason algebraically and in helping establish classroom norms and practices at the beginning of the school year. In this article, the authors consider the mathematical and social purposes that pattern tasks can serve by examining one middle school's…

This collection of activities is designed to show how graphics display calculators can be used to foster algebraic thinking in middle school students. The collection consists of five activities addressing such topics as functions, estimation and scatterplots, and patterns. Blackline masters for the activities are included. (MM)

Identifies and addresses fundamental ideas that build the foundations of algebraic thinking and reasoning. Focuses on developing appropriate instructional approaches to these concepts. Explains what is meant by "composite unit" and how this concept framed the development of an instructional sequence to help students make sense of and find meaning…

Shows how sequenced learning activities can help students build conceptual bridges from arithmetic to algebra. Focuses on understanding equivalent algebraic expressions, an area in which U.S. students scored poorly on the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). (YDS)

Reflects on one teacher's strategies for facilitating discourse in his classroom--creating an environment in which student ideas are the basis of discussion yet ensuring productive mathematics. (YDS)

Describes different solution strategies used by students for a problem on the cost of talking on the phone. (YDS)

Presents an activity, "Lisa's Lemonade Stand," that actively engages students in algebraic thinking as they analyze change by investigating relationships between variables and gain experience describing and representing these relationships graphically. (YDS)

Presents a measurement problem that can be explored by students of varying ability. Discusses aspects that make it accessible in a heterogeneous class. (YDS)

Describes a series of lessons in which 6th grade students explore notions of rates of change and their effect on the shapes of graphs. Addresses aspects of the algebra content standard for the middle grades. (YDS)

Offers teaching suggestions for activities using the TI-73 graphing calculator in middle schools. Topics include the number line, data handling, and algebraic thinking. (MM)

Describes the use of the TI-73 calculator to support and enhance the teaching of mathematics with 9-11 year old students. Topics include equivalent fractions, algebra, and data handling. (MM)

Demonstrates the transformations that are possible to construct a variety of magic squares, including modifications to challenge students from elementary grades through algebra. Presents an example of using magic squares with students who have special needs. (YDS)

Describes a lesson plan in which students apply their mathematical intuition to determine win-loss possibilities of teams in a sports league and develop a formula for calculating the magic number for clinching first place. (YDS)

Presents the "Food for Thought" problem and discusses different approaches used by Algebra 1 students to solve the problem. (YDS)