Category: Algebraic Reasoning

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Algebraic Reasoning Math Programs

Why Students Struggle With Algebra

Why Students Struggle With Algebra

As parents of school-aged children, it can be disheartening to watch your child struggle with a subject as fundamental as algebra. It has a reputation as one of the most challenging subjects in math, and many students face difficulty understanding and engaging with the material. Whether this is due to an inadequate curriculum or lack of interest on the part of the student, it’s important to identify why and how students are struggling—and find ways to help them understand these types of math operations. In this blog post, we’ll look at potential causes behind these struggles and offer advice on math learning techniques to help support your child with algebra today!

A Dreaded Topic

Math can be difficult for many students, with algebra being one of the most dreaded topics. Whether it be struggling to solve equations or an innate dislike for algebraic concepts, it is all too common for students to want to avoid even discussing algebra altogether due to an overwhelming sense of anxiety. Let’s face it, children are not often heard squealing with delight, “math is fun” when practicing algebra. 

Feeling anxious when dealing with math is common and is often referred to as “math anxiety.” Math anxiety is a feeling of discomfort, worry, or worry-based avoidance related to math. It can range from mild to severe, and the symptoms may vary from person to person. Often math anxiety is experienced as an intense fear of math which may cause individuals to freeze up, experience difficulty concentrating,  understanding math concepts, or recalling math facts quickly. 

With math anxiety, it can be more difficult to make connections between equations and concepts due to the lack of comfort and security around math content. In some cases, math anxiety may even lead to procrastination when doing math homework or taking tests involving math. To help students manage math anxiety, teachers and parents need to identify these feelings early on and develop strategies like deep breathing exercises, writing down thoughts in a math journal, and practicing self-talk such as “I can do this” etc.

Building An Understanding

Math is a significant subject to build a strong understanding of, as it relies heavily on correctly understanding the basics. If missed concepts go unchecked, it can lead to further difficulty in math problems that involve more complex calculations. Students must ensure they understand the fundamentals before attempting harder math equations; without them, they may not be able to find solutions correctly, leading to frustration.

When it comes to algebra, it serves as the fundamental building block for higher mathematics. Without a good understanding of algebra’s basic principles, complex algebraic formulas and equations become much more difficult to comprehend. 

When students move on from algebra without achieving mastery of its basics, their knowledge gap becomes increasingly more apparent in subsequent levels of math, making it hard to understand even the most simple concepts of higher-level mathematics. 

This is an important concept to keep in mind if your child is struggling with algebra. They may be running into trouble because of missed learning of basic fundamentals. 

Using Algebra In The Real World

Algebra can seem like a scary subject to many, but it is possible that this difficulty is not inherent in algebra itself but rather in the way it is being taught. Many educators have pointed out that algebra instruction often disregards the reality of its application outside of worksheets and exams, lacking an intuitive understanding of how algebra concepts are actually used in the real world. As such, if your child is struggling with algebra, there may be a disconnect between the knowledge they have acquired through instruction and their ability to apply it. 

If your child seems frustrated with algebra, developing new tactics to make learning easier is paramount. Such tactics may include interactive instructional videos, active learning activities and worksheets, or online questionnaires that present real-life scenarios in which algebra can be applied. Providing students with varied forms of engagement not only equips them to tackle modern-day problems but also helps foster enthusiasm for algebra by allowing them to explore its wide-reaching areas within mathematics.

Dropkick Math Academy offers various programs that take learning algebra to whole new levels. We believe that learning should be fun and engaging and show students how it can be used in real life.

The Top Three Reasons

While there can be multiple reasons for your child struggling with algebra, our list includes the top three reasons we encounter daily. If your child does appear to struggle with algebra, the best course of action is to get them help as soon as possible. As previously mentioned, math is a concept that builds upon itself, so if a child is missing the basics, it will only continue to get more frustrating for them. 

Doesn’t Have To Be Stressful

Despite algebra’s reputation, mastering it does not have to be associated with stress and difficulty. 

Engaging in activities and exercises outside of the classroom and getting support from peers and instructors are all helpful strategies when facing algebra-related challenges. One of the best ways to accomplish this is with math tutoring. 

Dropkick Math Academy offers virtual group classes that can help students form a base understanding of algebra principals. Our instructors encourage peer support and make the learning environment fun and engaging. 

Dropkick Math Academy offers a rotating schedule of classes, so you don’t have to wait long to get the help your child needs. Our trilogy program focused on algebra helps your child:

  • Recognize the difference between linear and non-linear relations 
  • use visual patterns as a springboard to dig into algebraic manipulation and solve equations
  • Strengthen their algebraic reasoning skills
  • Solve equations by connecting processes to contexts
  • explore and review concepts connected to almost completely abstract representations and models of linear and nonlinear relationships
  • Use algebra to solve authentic (or real-world problems)
  • Further develop their multiplicative thinking and proportional reasoning

Learn more about our programs today, and get your child started on their way to enjoying algebra!

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Algebraic Reasoning

What Is Algebraic Thinking

What Is Algebraic Thinking

It’s easy to feel daunted when thinking about algebra, with its perplexing symbols and equations that seem like a foreign language. But much of the fear surrounding algebraic thinking is simply due to unfamiliarity; if your child can get to know it better, chances are good they might just find themselves reaching for those numeric symbols more often than you’d expect! Today we will be your algebra tutor and tackle this mysterious branch of mathematics, demystifying the basics so that your child’s first steps into algebra can be taken with confidence.

Understanding Patterns In The World

Algebra is a unique and important branch of mathematics. It involves the manipulation of numbers, symbols, and equations in order to solve multi-variable problems. Algebra helps us determine what a value might be if we are given certain pieces of information or what probability any given event may have. This makes it an extremely useful tool for those wanting better to understand the patterns in the world around them. 

After developing an understanding of algebra’s basic principles, students can then develop these skills further to solve increasingly complex equations, making it an incredibly valuable set of tools for anyone to possess. 

Analytical Problem Solving

Algebraic thinking can be thought of as analytical problem solving, as it is a way of using algebra to look at abstract relationships and solve equations. It involves understanding algebraic rules, comprehending algebraic notation, reasoning algebraically, and connecting algebra with real-world situations. 

In addition, algebraic thinking requires the use of logical deduction to draw conclusions from given information. Ultimately, this type of thinking requires understanding patterns and relationships often hidden beneath the surface. When practiced correctly, algebraic thinking can provide powerful insights into complicated problems that would otherwise remain unknown.

Algebra In Everyday Life

Algebra is a useful tool for carrying out calculations in everyday life. It can help us solve problems such as estimating the cost or duration of something, which can be incredibly helpful when making financial or time-related decisions. For example, algebra can calculate the lowest price possible on a product and determine how long it will take to travel a certain distance. Although algebra may initially seem intimidating, learning how to apply algebraic concepts and equations can be beneficial.  

The first and most important tip to remember is that every student has the capacity to learn how to think algebraically if provided with supportive instruction and helpful tools. To give students the confidence they need to tackle algebraic concepts, teachers and parents should emphasize the importance of problem-solving and explain that algebra is essentially a language made up of symbols used to make sense of our world. 

With this new frame of reference in mind, algebra can become easier for students as they gain more practice working through problems step-by-step. By having a clear plan for introducing algebraic material and providing ample opportunities for practice and feedback, teachers and parents have the power to give children the resources they need to think algebraically confidently.

How To Start Thinking Algebraically

The focus of algebraic thinking should begin with operations and processes rather than numbers and computations. When algebra is studied this way, the rules for manipulating numbers and letters in equations aren’t confusing but are instead a natural extension of what students know about the equation.

Algebraic Reasoning

If you have heard the term algebraic reasoning and wondered how it differs from algebraic thinking – it doesn’t. Both hold the same meaning. At Dropkick Math Academy, we use the term algebraic reasoning when talking about the four pillars of math that our programs have been based around. 

At Dropkick Math, we understand that algebraic reasoning is part of exploring the structure of mathematics. The ability to reason and think proportionately is a critical factor in developing a student’s ability to understand mathematics. However, many students do not seem to grasp any real sense of algebra and often give up understanding it fully.

Due to this education gap, it has been suggested that students be given meaningful experiences in algebraic learning. We are an online math tutor that offers specialized programs focusing on algebraic reasoning, such as The Darkness Of Algebra. In this trilogy, students will navigate through the darkness of algebra with the help of Dropkick Lee, and conquer this challenging topic. 

In this program, students will:

  • Recognize the difference between linear and non-linear relations 
  • use visual patterns as a springboard to dig into algebraic manipulation and solve equations
  • Strengthen their algebraic reasoning skills
  • Solve equations by connecting processes to contexts
  • explore and review concepts connected to almost completely abstract representations and models of linear and nonlinear relationships
  • Use algebra to solve authentic (or real-world problems)
  • Further develop their multiplicative thinking and proportional reasoning

If your child is struggling, an algebra tutor may be the best solution to get them back on track. Get started today by learning more about our programs and if they are the right fit for your child.

Categories
Algebraic Reasoning

Why Is Algebra So Scary?

Why Is Algebra So Scary

Algebra can be a scary subject for some students, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little help and encouragement from an algebra tutor, students can learn to love algebra and all of the opportunities it provides for problem-solving and critical thinking. In this post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why algebra is seen as being so difficult, and we’ll offer tips for making the learning process a little less daunting. So if your child is struggling with algebra, read on for some helpful guidance.

Math Anxiety

When we ask the question, “Why is algebra so scary?” the real question should be, “Why are so many people afraid of math?” Math anxiety is a very real phenomenon that can affect both young and old, making many feel nervous about trying to do math.  

But math anxiety is more than just a feeling of nervousness when facing problems. Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as a racing heart or sweating. With such physical reactions, many people who have math anxiety tend to avoid situations in which they have to do math. Children with math anxiety will often have poor math skills because their first instinct is to avoid the problem. Adults with math anxiety are less likely to succeed in careers relating to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Until recently, educators thought that math anxiety first appeared when children learned complicated mathematics (such as algebra). So this would mean that young children who do not yet do complex math would not experience math anxiety. However, recent research shows that some children as young as six years old say that they feel anxious about math. Therefore, it is essential to address math anxiety when it is first noticed in a child. 

The Language Used To Express Ideas

It’s common for algebra to be seen as a subject that primarily involves memorizing formulas and number crunching. However, when we look closer, algebra is all about logical thinking and problem-solving. When we approach algebra problems, instead of simply plugging numbers into pre-existing formulas, we can think about what the unknown variable represents and how it relates to the other elements in the equation. 

Many students struggle with algebra, assuming it’s just a bunch of new and confusing information. However, algebra is actually the language we use to express ideas and relationships that we already know from real-life experience. Take the concept of “variable,” for example. Variables are just values or objects that can change – like a person’s height or the number of candy bars in a bag. 

We see variables everywhere in daily life, but algebra gives us a way to quantify and communicate those changes more precisely. So the next time your child feels overwhelmed by algebra equations, try to identify the underlying concept they already understand and apply it to solve the problem. Remember, algebra isn’t about learning something new – it’s about putting language into concepts we encounter daily.

This shift in perspective can help students learn to tackle algebra problems with greater creativity and confidence. It’s important to remember that algebra is not just about obtaining the right answer but also understanding its underlying concepts and reasoning. So next time your child is facing an algebra challenge, have them focus on the logic rather than just blindly plugging in numbers.

Why Is Algebra Important?​

Algebra is a crucial foundation for higher-level math and science courses. In algebra, students learn how to solve for variables in equations, representing real-world situations mathematically. This skill is used in all sciences, as well as in engineering and finance. 

Without a basic understanding of algebra, it would be virtually impossible to progress to more advanced math and science courses in college or in certain careers. Therefore, it is important to have a solid grasp of algebraic concepts and techniques. Additionally, learning algebra can help improve critical thinking skills and overall problem-solving abilities that are applicable in many aspects of life beyond academics. Ultimately, studying algebra helps lay the groundwork for future success in various fields.

Making Algebra Fun!​

Algebra can often be challenging for students, but at Dropkick Math Academy, we believe in making learning fun. Through game-based activities and interactive lessons, algebra becomes much more engaging. Students become engaged in problem-solving and critical thinking as they work their way through the game levels, quickly improving their algebra skills without even realizing it. Our approach helps to demystify algebra and make it a less intimidating subject for students. So if algebra has been a struggle for you or your child, come check out Dropkick Math Academy and see how we can make learning enjoyable.

We recently added three new programs to our class list centred around algebra. The Darkness of Algebra Trilogy offers three separate modules that will take children on an adventure as they navigate through the darkness of algebra with the help of Dropkick Lee.

The first in the series will have children battling through the underground world of darkness, where they will explore and review concepts connected to linear and nonlinear visual patterns. The follow-up to Vision Quest builds on the concepts developed in Part 1 by providing students with opportunities to explore and review concepts connected to linear and nonlinear situations and real-life contexts. For the third module, students will battle it out in the dark world and have opportunities to explore and review concepts connected to abstract representations and linear and nonlinear relationship models.

At Dropkick Math Academy, we understand that algebra can be a scary subject, but we take those thoughts and turn them upside down to make it fun! Our programs are taught by certified Ontario teachers who can spot any gaps in learning and get to the root of any misunderstandings.

If you have been searching for algebra tutoring online, look no further. Dropkick Math Academy offers programs that will make your child want to learn! We offer a different take from online math tutors and make learning algebra fun and interactive. 

Check out our programs, and register your child today!

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Algebraic Reasoning

Why All Students Have The Capacity To Think Algebraically

Why All Students Have The Capacity To Think Algebraically

Most people think that only good math students can think algebraically. This, however, is not true. Algebraic thinking is a skill that all students can learn. In fact, all students have the capacity to think algebraically if they are given the opportunity to do so. Algebraic thinking allows students to see patterns and relationships in data, which can help them make better decisions in school and life. 

If you want your child to be able to think critically and solve complex problems, then you should encourage them to learn how to think algebraically. Luckily, plenty of resources can help them do this, including online math help from Dropkick Math Academy! So don’t wait any longer; start encouraging your child today! They will thank you for it later.

What Is Algebra?

Algebra is a mathematical subject that deals with symbols and the rules governing how they interact. It is considered a universal language, as it helps us understand and describe patterns we see in the world around us. Algebra is used in many fields, such as physics, engineering, and economics. 

While many people view algebra as a dry and difficult subject, it is very useful in everyday life. For example, algebra can help us to solve problems such as finding the lowest price for a product or working out how long it will take to travel a certain distance. Algebra is an important tool that can be used to solve real-world problems. 

Online Math Help For Algebra

Algebra can seem difficult to some students because it requires the ability to think abstractly. This can be difficult for some students because it is not intuitive. It is based on symbols and variables rather than numbers, so students need to be able to manipulate these symbols to solve equations. 

While this may seem daunting, for many people, algebra is simply a matter of practice makes perfect. The more a student does it, the better they will become at it. Of course, students will be at different places when starting out, but that is ok. All students can think algebraically and do so quite often! 

These students might benefit from working with a tutor or taking an algebra class. At Dropkick Math Academy, the math tutor will be a certified Ontario teacher who understands how to help students think algebraically. With a little extra help, most students can overcome their struggles with algebra.

How To Think Algebraically

Thinking algebraically can seem scary for many people. Everyone has heard jokes about algebra and how it is virtually impossible to learn. But that simply isn’t true. Every student has the capacity to learn how to think algebraically if given the right instruction and tools. 

The first step to start when learning how to think algebraically is learning the definition. By learning the definition of what it means to think algebraically, a student can then begin to use algebraic thinking skills to make sense of different situations. 

The focus of algebraic thinking should begin with operations and processes rather than numbers and computations. When algebra is studied this way, the rules for manipulating numbers and letters in equations aren’t confusing but are instead a natural extension of what students know about the equation. 

Algebraic Reasoning

Algebraic thinking (also known as algebraic reasoning) allows for the exploration of the structure of mathematics. At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe there is a vital importance of including algebraic reasoning in mathematics instructions from a very young age so that ideas are accessible to all students. 

Algebraic reasoning is one of our four pillars of math that is used throughout our programs at Dropkick Math. Our approach respects what we know about how students learn by sequencing the content in a developmentally appropriate way and providing alternatives in an approach that allows for conceptual understanding.

We understand that math can be intimidating, frustrating, and difficult for many children and parents. That is why we base our programs around fun and engaging content. By creating a type of math playground, we can encourage students to boost their confidence while enjoying learning. 

All of our programs are taught by certified Ontario teachers who are passionate about helping students who may be struggling with math concepts. Our tailored programs are specifically created for students and their guardians to work together on understanding the building blocks of mathematics. We create a fun and educational environment through engaging games and interactive learning tools. 

Learn more about our programs today and how we differ from traditional math tutors. 

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Algebraic Reasoning

Understanding Algebraic Reasoning

Understanding Algebraic Reasoning

Understanding Algebraic Reasoning

Understanding Algebraic Reasoning

Algebraic reasoning focuses on patterns, functions, and the ability to analyze situations with the help of symbols. It involves generalizing, representing, and formalizing patterns and regularity in all aspects of mathematics.

Algebraic reasoning is introduced in the early grades and can help children develop the ability to learn proficiency using equations, functions, and variables. This can be done by assisting them in exploring different concepts through fun, simple, but thought-stimulating activities. It is never too early to begin teaching the foundations of algebraic reasoning for young learners.

How Children Explore Algebra

Much of math, especially algebra, is based on patterns. Younger students can begin looking for patterns all around them as a great introduction to algebraic reasoning. Many teachers like to give students exercises that include manipulatives such as pattern blocks, buttons, keys, and coloured cubes so that students can create patterns on their desks with these materials.

Functions are also a big part of algebra. Younger students start by learning functions with input and output. An excellent way for children to learn about function is with a calculator. Teachers will show students how to turn a simple calculator into a function machine. Students are often asked to program their calculators with a function and see if classmates can guess it by viewing the outputs.

In algebra, x is often used to represent an unknown. Younger students start to work with a symbol (like a box or open square) for a variable (x), and letters representing the variable are introduced in grade 6. Algebraic reasoning becomes easier for many students to understand by making fun and interactive games. For example, students may be given three clues to help figure out the mysterious “x.” x+1=3, x+0=2, and 4-x=2. What is x? (answer: x=2)

In algebraic reasoning, students need to learn that the equal sign means “the same as”  when reading number sentences and later algebraic equations. Younger students often get confused and think that the “=” means “the answer is.” By learning the proper use of the = in algebraic reasoning, students will have a reinforced idea of balancing equations because each side has the same quantity. It can also develop their understanding of equality which is a BIG IDEA in algebraic reasoning.

Algebraic Symbols

Using algebraic symbols is a large part of becoming proficient in applying algebra to solve problems. But, understanding abstract symbolism without a foundation of the operational sense is likely to lead to frustration and failure. Children have a natural love of mathematics at an early age, and it is vital to foster this admiration. Their curiosity is a strong motivator as they try to describe and extend patterns of shapes, sounds, colours, and eventually letters and numbers. Children can begin to make generalizations about patterns that seem to be the same or different, and this kind of categorizing and generalizing is an essential developmental step on the journey towards algebraic thinking.

Recognizing Patterns

Through elementary grades, patterns are not only the subject of study but can also be used as a tool. Students can use patterns to help them recognize numbers as they develop their understanding of mathematics. As they explore and understand addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, they can look for patterns that help them learn procedures and facts. Patterns in rows and columns of objects or patterns within multiplication tables are interesting to children and can help them discover their facts and understand relationships among facts.

The Development of Algebraic Reasoning

The development of algebraic reasoning is a process, not an event. It is something that can be part of a motivating, positive, and enriching school mathematics experience if appropriately taught. At Dropkick Math, we understand that algebraic reasoning is part of exploring the structure of mathematics. The ability to reason and think proportionately is a critical factor in developing a student’s ability to understand mathematics. However, many students do not seem to grasp any real sense of algebra and often give up understanding it fully.

Due to this education gap, it has been suggested that students be given meaningful experiences in algebraic learning. But before you start thinking, “is there a math tutor near me?” it is essential to understand the way that children learn. Many students struggle with algebraic reasoning and realizing that this may be a result of the way it is being taught to them. With Dropkick Math, we use interactive tools that allow students to learn algebra easily and help them fully understand it as one of the four main pillars of mathematics.

The ability for everyone to enjoy math is why Dropkick Math doesn’t just want to tutor your child. We want to help the family better understand how math works and fill in any educational gaps in learning. Get started today by learning more about our programs and if they are the right fit for your child.

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