As students progress into algebra, they need to be able to understand and interpret algebraic expressions. Even though the expressions are usually short and relatively simple to read, they can be tricky for students to translate. Students need to remember their mathematical terms for each operation. They also need to be aware of "stitch order" and the use of parenthesis.
Vocabulary
Algebraic Phrase: A short written statement that contains numbers, variables, and mathematical operations
Need To Know
Algebraic expressions are like short word problems.
Recall all key operation vocabulary:
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Study and Practice²
Flash Cards
To help students remember the key words they could make flash cards to study with.
To help students remember the key words they could make flash cards to study with.
Using 3x5 index cards they would write the operation and its symbol (+, -, x, /) on the front of the card and the associated key terms on the back, lined side of the card. They can study independently or with a partner. It is important that they know these words to help them translate a phrase properly.
"Math Coach"
Once students have a set of 3x5 cards, they can start translating algebraic expressions. Students can work in groups practicing how to translate an algebraic phrase. Have one student read a phrase aloud to the group. Students should underline any key terms that they find. The "math coaches" in the group would use their flash cards to identify the vocabulary in the phrase and follow the flash card operation. The group should switch readers and coaches after they translate each phrase.
Example:
1.) Break the phrase up into sections: three times a number plus twelve
three times a number plus twelve
2.) Translate the identified key words: 3 * x + 12
3.) Rewrite in a variable phrase: 3x + 12
Example:
1.) Break the phrase up into sections: three times a number plus twelve
three times a number plus twelve
2.) Translate the identified key words: 3 * x + 12
3.) Rewrite in a variable phrase: 3x + 12
Switch Order Example: six taken away from 5 and a number
1.) Identify six taken away from 5 and a number
2.) Translate 6 - 5x
*This order will not work. Students need to recognize they need the 5x first before they can take 6 away.
3.) Switch Order 5x-6
Common Core Standard ³
CCSS.Math.Content.6.EE.A.2
Write, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers.
CCSS.Math.Content.6.EE.A.2.a
Write expressions that record operations with numbers and with letters standing for numbers. For example, express the calculation "Subtract y from 5" as 5 - y.
Write, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers.
CCSS.Math.Content.6.EE.A.2.a
Write expressions that record operations with numbers and with letters standing for numbers. For example, express the calculation "Subtract y from 5" as 5 - y.
Sources:
1 - https://img1.etsystatic.com/046/0/10046090/il_570xN.677510387_py3b.jpg
2 - https://www.vocabulary.com/articles/lessons/using-key-words-to-unlock-math-word-problems/
3 - http://www.corestandards.org/Math/Content/6/EE/
I really like the math terms chart- when I read statements and see the terms, I understand what operation it is referring to but often forget that students can be confessed. Provide children a worksheet for reference is a great tool to allow students to solve problems on their own. The math coach concept is a great idea to use peer tutoring versus teacher led instruction. I would even group students so that there are students who are stronger in the topic paired with students who are weaker in that topic. Translating equations from words, to key words, to variable phrases makes it easier to identify what step a student is struggling on.
ReplyDeleteHi Jill! I really enjoyed this post-great resources!-Marlee
ReplyDeleteJill,
ReplyDeleteI love the topic you chose for this post! It is imperative as you mention, that student need to understand “math language” in order to be successful with learning and understanding math. It would be great to have this a long side students desk until they mastered them if they needed extra help remembering the terms. It would definitely be helpful if it the reference sheet was hung around the classroom. Sometimes when we get anxious during a test, we tend to forget important information. Having this posted around the room will allow the students to store this information in their heads. Its one thing to have the reference sheet handy and visible but its another to really teat their understanding by giving a pop up quiz about the different terms, variables, key phrases, and much more. Repetition is key when it comes to learning! You have a great post here, cant wait to see what else you have in store! Teaching the older kids math must be phone and there is so much you can do!
Jill,
ReplyDeleteI think this is a very valuable post. Sometimes I think it is easy to forget how complicated math language can be. Understanding the math terms you posted about is key to a deep conceptual understanding of math. In word problems, students sometimes just combine the numbers in the problem based on the lesson they just learned without really knowing what the problem asked. When cumulative exams come around they don't know how to answer these same problems because they don't understand the terminology. I have seen this in the students that I tutor. Students don't know how to explain key terms and then feel like they don't know how to attack a problem. This is definitely something that can easily be taken for granted and I thank you for the resources you provided!
Julie