Making Algebraic Thinking Visible

Making Algebraic Thinking Visible

This clever problem would be an excellent way to lead student's into a dialogue about using different methods to solve a problem.  Further, it has an accessible entry where visually a student may be able to deduce the height of the table and it allows other student's to reason algebraically with multiple variables.  This could be used in an elementary class as an intro the algebraic inquiry, yet it could also be used as a "minds on" exploration in the senior grades before demonstrating how to solve equations with more than one variable.  Overall, it is a gripping challenge and would allow the students to engage in mathematical dialogic investigation.

Watch the video below by Presh Talwalker at Mind Your Decisions to see two methods to solve this problem.  It could also be solved using bar modelling from Singapore's Primary Mathematics program. 

Geometry Snacks

Geometry Snacks

I was intrigued by a geometry question I saw on  Twitter which credited authors, Ed Southwell and Vincent Pantaloni.  Geometry Snacks is a great mathematical puzzle book with many geometrical figures that will lead the student through several complex challenges.  The problems are fun, increase in complexity and allow students to see how many approaches one can use to solve a problem.  The first questions could be used to challenge elementary and middle school students, whereas the latter challenges involve the application of higher level mathematics and logic.  Once a student has solved the problem, the authors also provide further challenges. The rich geometric vocabulary makes this little pocket book, an excellent resource for teachers of Mathematics.


A Sample Question for Geometry Snacks as presented by blogger and author Presh Talwalker.