course component
Early Steps Count: Teaching Arithmetic to Prepare Students for Algebra
(Grade K-6)
Linda Plattner
Subject Area: Mathematics
Course Title: Early Steps Count: Teaching Arithmetic to Prepare Students for Algebra
Course Requirements: Video Program and Assessment
Course Description: The teaching of elementary mathematics can be sloppy, leading students to mathematical misunderstandings. Sometimes misinformation is implied; for example, during subtraction, "borrowing" implies that a number is not a single entity, since you can't borrow from yourself. Sometimes the misinformation is directly taught; for example, during subtraction, students are taught to always put the big number on top. Some students, particularly those struggling in school, may never recover from learning these misconceptions. Linda Plattner will address the most common math mistakes, their genesis, and alternate approaches to teaching basic elementary concepts. Participants will analyze various methods to teach computation and explore ways to develop the concepts needed to approach algebra. This session will also look at the research of Dr. Lipping Ma, who researched the differences between American teachers and Chinese teachers in terms of preparation, their understanding of mathematics, and their methods of teaching.
Course Objectives:
1. Deepen your understanding of basic math
2. Become more reflective about the way basic math is taught
3. Strengthen understanding of relationship between algebra and
arithmetic
4. Reflect on newly acquired knowledge and identify next steps
for classroom applications
Course Assessment:
A certificate of completion will be awarded to participants who successfully complete the online assessment after viewing the video program.
Alignment with Standards:
National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
Mid-continent Regional Educational Laboratory Standards
NASA - NCTM Standards
Professional Development Points: 2
Additional points may be earned through completion of follow-up activities.
Additional Helps: Follow-up activities and resources
It is recommended that participants in the video course complete follow-up activities to deepen their knowledge and skills. When these activities are completed in accordance with local staff development guidelines, participants may be able to earn additional professional development credit. Contact your local staff development office for determining how you might receive credit for completing the video program and additional credit for completing follow-up activities.
Follow-up Activity 1: Plan a lesson
Follow-up Activity 2: Algorithm for Division
Follow-up Activity 3: Identify the Algebra Concepts
Follow-up Activity 4: Explore and Share Resources
