(Demystifying Verbal Problems)
Demystifying the Learning of Algebra with Hands-On Equations
(for students in grades 3 - 9)
Celebrating our 25th year of service to the mathematics community with more than 2500 Making Algebra Child's Play workshops conducted since 1990.
Algebraic Thinking & Problem-Solving
Algebraic thinking and problem-solving are key mathematical strands of both the NCTM and the Common Core Math Standards. The visual and tactile approach of Hands-On Equations enables even young students to model and understand advanced mathematical concepts.
"Innovative programs such as Hands-On Equations® are
what American schools need to thrive once again."
- Tom Peters, co-author In Search of Excellence
The Power of Visual and Kinesthetic Learning
Hands-On Equations enables students to concretely represent algebraic equations and word problems. The unknowns and the constants are represented by game pieces placed on a representation of a balance scale. The solution process is carried out by means of physical actions upon these pieces. The concepts are being learned at a deep bodily level. Recent research has shown the value of using gestures in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Some of these studies are listed in our research section.
Click here to see a video clip of the full setup, solution and check to the equation 4x + 5 = 2x + 13 by Eric, age 8, using the teacher's demonstration balance scale.
Whole-Brain Instruction
Using the combined learning modalities of touch, sight and speech enables the students to develop a unified understanding of key algebraic concepts. An in-depth level of understanding is achieved.
An Algebraic Learning Environment Enabling Discovery of Concepts
Just as we learn our native language as young children without even trying, students working with Hands-On Equations discover significant algebraic concepts on their own. For example, they learn to combine like terms. They learn the concept of equivalence and the relational meaning of the equal sign. Many students discover the distributive property on their own. At every point, they are fully engaged in their learning.
Algebra Concepts Your Student Will Learn in Only Seven Lessons!
- the concept of an unknown
- how to evaluate an expression
- how to combine like terms
- the relational meaning of the equal sign (both sides have the same value)
- the meaning of an algebra equation
- how to balance algebra equations (using the subtraction property of equality)
- the concept of the check of an equation
- the ability to solve one and two-step algebra equations
- solving equations with unknowns on both sides (see video)
- how to work with a multiple of a parenthetical expression
But Students Learn Much More. They Learn that:
- mathematics is a subject one can understand
- mathematics can be learned without memorization
- they need not be intimidated by algebra symbols
- they can enjoy doing mathematics
- they can explain mathematics to others
- they can have success in one of the most “difficult” topics of mathematics
- they have far greater learning potential then they ever realized
Teacher Workshops
Since 1990 more than 50,000 teachers nationwide have attended the Making Algebra Child’s Play workshop. These teachers come to learn how to effectively introduce algebra concepts to their elementary and middle school students. They know that the traditional methods of instruction are too abstract and ineffective for too many students. They come eager to learn the Hands-On Equations approach. Teachers may register to attend a public workshop, or districts may request one of our nationally certified instructors to come in to provide on-site staff development.
Dr. Henry Borenson developed Hands-On Equations when he was a Pennsylvania math teacher. "I wanted to literally make algebra child's play," explains Borenson, who developed his system in working with children of various abilities, including children with learning difficulties. "We have had a lot of feedback from teachers that using this instructional approach greatly boosts children's self-esteem. Teachers who themselves struggled with algebra have called it a revelation. And of course, we have strong research results to show the effectiveness of the program.”
Presently, Dr. Borenson’s research interests are focused on the introduction of algebraic thinking to students in grades K – 2.
(Demystifying the Learning of Algebra)
(for teachers of grades 3 to 9)
This one-day workshop empowers teachers to understand and use the visual, kinesthetic, and pictorial Hands-On Equations teaching methodology to successfully present essential algebraic concepts to students in grades 3 to 8. By “breaking the code” of algebra, Hands-On Equations empowers students to work with sophisticated-looking algebraic concepts, thereby enhancing their self-esteem and interest in mathematics.
"It made me believe that my lowest kids could learn Algebra. There is HOPE!" -workshop participant
(for teachers of grades 3 – 9)
Learn how to empower your teachers to empower their students to solve word problems! Students transform the abstract verbal problems into a physical or pictorial representation that they can understand and solve using the methods of Hands-On Equations. See how consecutive odd integer problems become child’s play!
High school teachers will also find these ideas
helpful for students struggling with algebra.
FREE 45-Minute Introductory Webinars!
A fun, interactive, experience! You will see how Hands-On Equations enables you to demystify algebraic concepts for students in grades 3 - 9. Computer speakers needed.
Demystifying the Learning of Algebra with Hands-On Equations:
Thursday, February 16, 2012 from 3:15 – 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
Thursday, March 1, 2012 from 3:15 – 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
Demystifying the Learning of Verbal Problems
Tuesday, February 7, 2012 from 1:15 to 2:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
Tuesday, February 21, 2012 from 1:15 – 2:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
To register click on the link of the webinar you wish to attend.
Invite your colleagues to join you!
Free Onsite Staff Development with Purchase
Purchase thirty class sets of Hands-On Equations ® for Teacher and Thirty (30) Students and receive the training absolutely free! Call 800-993-6284 to schedule the training for your district or complete a form you can submit on line! Provide your district with exceptional on-site staff development!
"The Making Algebra Child's Play workshop is the most requested workshop from classroom teachers...not only is Hands-On Equations a powerful tool and the workshop exceptional, the customer service is outstanding."
-Charity D. Weber, Specialist, Elementary Mathematics
District 8, Los Angeles School District
Los Angeles, CA
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STAFF DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP!
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