Hands-On Algebra! - (J-B Ed: Hands on) by Frances McBroom Thompson (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Lay a solid foundation of algebra proficiency with over 155 hands-on games and activities. To complement the natural process of learning, each activity builds on the previous one-- from concrete to pictorial to abstract. Dr. Thompson's unique three-step approach encourages students to first recognize patterns; then use diagrams, tables, and graphs to illustrate algebraic concepts; and finally, apply what they've learned through cooperative games, puzzles, problems, and activities using a graphic calculator and computer. You'll find each activity has complete teacher directions, lists of materials needed, and helpful examples for discussion, homework, and quizzes. Most activities include time-saving reproducible worksheets for use with individual students, small groups, or the entire class. This ready-to-use resource contains materials sufficient for a two-semester course in Algebra I and can be adapted for advanced students as well as students with dyslexia.

From the Back Cover

For grades 7-12 teachers, here's a vast collection of 159 ready-to-use games and activities to make algebra meaningful and fun for kids of all ability levels!

Throurgh a unique three-step approach, students gain mastery over algebra concepts and skills one activity at a time:

• Activity 1 offers physical models (using available materials) and easy-to-follow instructions to help learners seek patterns.
• Activity 2 uses pictorial models like diagrams, tables, and graphs to further help students retain and test what they have learned.
• Activity 3 encourages exploration and application of newly learned concepts and skills through cooperative games, puzzles, problems, and graphic calculator or computer activities.

For quick access and easy use, all materials are organized into five major sections and printed in a big 8 1/4" x 11" lay-flat binding for easy photocopying. Following is just a small sample of the many activities featured in each section:

1. REAL NUMBERS, THEIR OPERATIONS, AND THEIR PROPERTIES: Array Build-Up (Multiplication)...Splitting Things Apart (Applying Distributive Property)...No Sign Posts! (Ordering Operations)...Rectangle Mangle (Applying Absolute Value)
2. LINEAR FORMS: Make-and-Replace (Evaluating Algebraic Expressions)...A Whole in One! (Linear Equations Involving Fractions)...Switching Tracks (Solving aX + b = cX + d)
3. LINEAR APPLICATIONS AND GRAPHING: How Much Additional Fencing? (Modeling Linear Relationships)...Mix It Up! (Ratio & Proportion)...Graphing Capers (Solving for Y in terms of X)
4. QUADRATIC CONCEPTS: Factor Draw (Factoring Second-Degree Polynomials)...Sliding Curves (Exploring Quadratic Functions)...Squaring with Tiles (Solving by Completing the Square)
5. SPECIAL APPLICATIONS: Great Divide (Transforming Linear Inequalities)...Which Sum Works? (Pythagorean Theorem)...Growth Patterns (Exponential Functions)

You'll find each activity has complete teacher directions, materials needed, and helpful examples for discussion, homework, and quizzes. And to make your job easier, most activities include time-saving reproducible worksheets or game pieces for use with individual students, small groups, or an entire class!

About the Author

Frances M. Thompson, Ed.D. (University of Georgia) has taught mathematics at the junior and senior high school levels, served as a K-12 math specialist, and is currently professor of mathematics at Texas Woman's University, Denton.