The functions-based approach to teaching Algebra
It is stated that
>>> The focus of the Algebra for All training was on implementing the functions-based approach to teaching Algebra.
Being new to this network, I'm writing to seek a definition and/or clarification of what is meant by
'The functions-based approach to teaching Algebra'.
This sounds very interesting an approach to me, and I do hope that my request can be the beginning of a thread of substantive discussions, which may eventually prove useful to all members of our network.
Thank you in advance for your comments.
Tags: approach, functions-based
Views: 31
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Sean Karsten on -
Algebra 4 All began as a professional development program for over 1000 Michigan teachers of Algebra 1. On the first day, it was explained that we would be looking at algebra through the lens of each of the function families. The main thing I remember is that by looking at algebra through the functions, you are able to much more easily see how the different topics of math are connected. If a student is looking at linear functions, they can see patterns, do transformations, solve equations, all through the lens of a linear function. As they move onto exponentials, quadratics, etc. they will be looking at how the patterns change or how the transformations are similar.
Also, all of our resources on the site are grouped by function to aid you in finding the type of resource you are looking for. If you want further explanation, I've attached a document that was given to the teachers on that first day that can likely explain the approach much better than I can. I found it under 'Documents,' 'A4A Year 1 documents' on Day 1.
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Why_Function_Approach.pdf, 145 KB
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