"I Need Algebra Help!"

Algebra is a means to generalizing any math process involving numbers in our number system. A strong foundation in numbers and operations is essential. Your child should be comfortable writing numbers in their expanded form.

Being able to articulate generalizations from arithmetic and patterns is a skill used throughout algebra.

Give your child the math knowledge questionnaire to establish their abilities in all areas of elementary math. This may indeed identify a problem that is not algebra, but essential to their success in the subject!

Follow these guides to analyze the results of the questionnaire.

Once you have brought your child up to speed (if required) the place to start is basic algebra. The reason for this is so you can monitor their reactions to certain types of questions.

For example: if they can jump in and solve this math problem;

18 + ___ = 20 (answer is 2)

But appear anxious when presented with

14 + x = 19 (answer is 5);

They are indicating a problem with algebraic variables. There are many printable math worksheets at your disposal on this site to give your child plenty of algebra practice.

At about Fourth grade, your child should have the ability to solve algebraic equations and inequalities using procedures and algebra facts. They will rely less and less on observations and trial and error.

Making use of a weighing scale image can greatly assist with inequalities in a visual way. If you know your child is a visual learner, aids like this will work wonders for their algebra comprehension.

Exposing your child to the mathematicians behind algebra and some famous number patterns is a must. The Fibonacci Numbers and the Gold Ratio might be just what they need to spur an exploratory interest in algebra.

An excellent way to offer your child algebra help is to show them that it is real and everywhere around them. It exists in nature as well as man made items. Send them on a Tessellations hunt, or Pattern Hunting. Of course they should record their finding in their math journal. Perhaps you could use their findings in a Data and Probability project!

This will encourage your child to look beyond text book math and perhaps broaden their horizons, and with luck, their love of mathematics.