Do You Understand Your Algorithms?

Abstract

Because an increasing number OF school districts requires the successful completion of an algebra course to graduate from high school, many middle school teachers are beginning to focus more attention on introducing algebraic thinking to their students (NCTM 2003). Consequently, it becomes important to consider ways to ensure that these experiences are meaningful and connected to arithmetical experiences from the earlier grades. We believe that presenting middle school students with activities that involve exploring computational algorithms—how and why they work—can contribute to the development and promotion of algebraic thinking.