overview
Patterns to Symbols: Algebra
(Grade 3-6)
Beth Cole
Course Description:
The transition from arithmetic to algebra is often difficult. That is why it is imperative that teachers of grades 3-6 have the opportunity to think about and experience algebraic activities appropriate for this level. This presentation will focus on the algebraic concept of generalization by analyzing patterns and helping students to describe and represent the patterns they find. Teachers will have the opportunity to engage in activities involving generalizing patterns with emphasis on how different students might approach the same problem. This process will not only provide exposure to a number of rich activities that can lay the foundation for further algebra study, but it allows teachers to increase their understanding of algebra. Woven throughout will be references to current research, including the work currently underway at TERC, Wisconsin Center for Education Research (WCER), and other research institutions.
Beth Cole
Dr. Beth Cole is a grade 6 mathematics teacher and mathematics curriculum coordinator at St. Patrick's Episcopal Day School in Washington, DC. She holds a degree in mathematics from Oberlin College, as well as both an M.A. and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with a focus on mathematics education, and a minor in computer sciences. While at Madison, Dr. Cole was a member of the development team for Mathematics in Context, a middle school mathematics curriculum with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF). In that role, she authored units, worked with field test and pilot test teachers, conducted research, and developed and conducted in-service training. In addition to her teaching duties, Dr. Cole works with the New Standards project, the College Board, and the NSF project to revise Mathematics in Context. She also serves on a middle grades assessment committee for the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM).
