Help young minds explore algebraic concepts
Algebra is the gateway to higher education, and preparing students to grasp algebraic concepts increases their opportunities to succeed. This book shows teachers how to create a strong foundation in algebra for very young children. Using in-depth math "explorations," the author unpacks—step by step—the hidden connections to higher algebra. Each exploration contains an elegantly simple grade-banded lesson (on addition, subtraction, patterns, and odd and even numbers), followed by a discussion of the algebra connections in the lesson, as well as suggestions for additional problems to explore. Throughout, readers will find:
- Clear explanations of algebraic connections
- Specific strategies for teaching the key ideas of algebra
- Lesson modifications for older or younger students
- An array of age-appropriate problems, games, and lessons
Planting the seeds of Algebra, PreK–2 helps teachers foster mathematical habits of mind in students such as critical thinking, problem solving, adaptability, agility, communication, curiosity, and imagination. Growth in these ways of thinking and doing will transfer to other areas of education and life—raising the bar and challenging students to aspire.
Industry Reviews
"This is a must-have resource for any early childhood mathematics teacher. Monica Neagoy plants the seeds of algebraic understanding through her story-like explorations involving patterns, operations with whole numbers, and so much more. The responses from children and teachers not only shape the importance of the book, but frame a presentation style that gives teachers a sense of 'I can do this!'" -- Francis (Skip) Fennell, L. Stanley Bowlsbey Professor of Education, McDaniel College and Past President, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics "This book is an excellent resource for a lesson-study group looking to deepen both their own knowledge of the interconnectedness of mathematics from the primary grades on up, and how to build a truly rich mathematical foundation for their students from the start." -- H. Caroline Piangerelli, PreK-12 Mathematics Specialist "The Common Core Standards call for all students to be competent in algebra. Algebraic concepts must be introduced in the primary grades to reach this goal. This book will deepen educators' understanding of algebra and shows how to set a firm foundation for students' future study." -- Charyl Kerns Hills, Elementary Mathematics & Technology Integration Specialist "This book is original, informative and engaging. The author does a great job of helping teachers understand how to further students' mathematical thinking to gain a certain flexibility and confidence. She also supports teachers by providing the necessary mathematical background for seeing the bigger picture of their students' math learning and thinking." -- Rosamaria Murillo, Principal "This book inspired me to rethink the way I approach math with my second graders. Monica Neagoy encourages teachers to allow children to arrive at answers through guided exploration and conceptual thinking. This approach makes math more enjoyable for teachers and students." -- Mollie M. Cura, Second-Grade Teacher "Monica Neagoy displays amazing math expertise and teaching prowess. Her enthusiasm for guiding teachers to expand their understanding of algebra is contagious. I have a deeper understanding of the expansive process I want to explore with young children. Through this book, she definitely takes us on a stimulating mathematical journey." -- Donna Ryan, Kindergarten Teacher "In clear and easy-to-follow language, Monica Neagoy shows how what teachers do at the elementary level fits into the big picture of students' success in higher math. This will be the go-to book for primary teachers who see the value of developing algebraic thinking in their students." -- Karen Kavaklian-D'Annecy, First-Grade Teacher "Given the place and nature of Algebra in the mathematics curriculum-late, isolated, and technical-it is a very worthwhile effort to show that algebraic ideas can be introduced earlier, focus more on reasoning and problem solving, and stress the connections to all aspects of mathematics. This book is thought provoking and sets the direction for 21st century competencies." -- Jan de Lange, Founder and Director "Monica's Pre-K through 2 journeys will inspire every lover of learning and foster a passion for mathematical thinking!" -- Sheila Hensley, Pre-K Teacher "Planting the Seeds of Algebra, PreK-2 offers wonderful explorations coupled with specific details that will support teachers as they strive to spark and nurture children's love of mathematics. Dr. Monica Neagoy honors young students' ways of understanding mathematical ideas while looking for avenues to help move them forward in their reasoning." -- LouAnn H. Lovin, Professor of Mathematics Education "This delightful book makes it easy for even the most intimidated and mathematically challenged teachers to nurture algebraic thinking in our young children and explains convincingly why it is so important that we do so. Monica's intimate, entertaining, informative, and inspiring accounts of her interactions with budding math students model for us precisely what we can say and do to keep our children off the computation treadmill and join them on the footpath of exploration and discovery in the quest for deeper understanding and true math fitness." -- Heather Gholson, Home educator "Dr. Neagoy illustrates through her examples in the classroom how algebra can be achieved by ALL when algebraic thinking is developed in the very early years. Through a variety of strategies and activities, young students construct understanding of rather complex mathematical concepts which will make the transition to a more formal course in algebra almost seamless." -- Leona Penner, Mathematics Teacher "Monica Neagoy provides in-depth stratagies and grade-specific approaches for building a foundation of math skills in the early grades, and is a 'must' pick for any early childhood math teacher." -- Midwest Book Review, September 2012
