How to Make Problem Solving Interactive in Algebra?

Do you know that the natural ability to focus on any particular topic of a school going child is just 10 minutes? Now imagine how a child can understand complicated concepts of algebra in long-winded, boring lectures. Parents face a hard time explaining it to their kids but to no avail. They face questions associated with algebra like 

What is algebra? 

Why is it important? 

What are the effective teaching strategies for improving algebra problems? 

How to make problem-solving fun in algebra?

How to make algebra interactive?  

If you have similar questions, then you are in the right place. Algebra is one of the most prestigious and oldest branches of mathematics that deals with various theories like number theory, quadratic equations, geometry, and formulas. Algebra is an amalgamation of basic equations and the study of abstraction. Making algebraic problems fun for students can ensure higher productivity and positive outcomes. How about a math gym? 

We will discuss the meaning, importance, types of arithmetical issues, and innovative approaches to make problem-solving interactive in algebra. This article will be insightful to get an in-depth idea about the subject matter. So, let us begin.

Meaning

Algebra is based on values called variables. The most cardinal part of algebra is an equation that follows various arithmetic rules. These rules include more than one variable. It is a fun fact that we use algebra unknowingly. But, do you know how? Well, to find the distance, figure out the sales price, or to check out the volume of the containers, etc. Any unknown quantity can get reconciled through algebra. Algebra includes exponents, simplification of algebraic expressions, polynomials, quadratic equations, etc.

Algebra can be useful in many ways like 

• It helps in calculating unknown values like percentage, interest, etc. 
• Various algebraic formulas get applied in our daily lives. 
• Algebra rejuvenates logical reasoning, as it helps in deriving logical conclusions and possible solutions. It enhances your aptitude.
• It acts as the foundation for further study in calculus and statistics.
• Algebra is considered a beautiful language in the world, as it helps you express real-world phenomena in a systematic matter.

Types of algebraic equations

•       Monomial or polynomial equation – When only one term is available in an algebraic expression, it can be termed a monomial equation. The term monomial is derived from the word mono and the Latin word nomial. As the name suggests, mono means one, and nomial means a term. It is also called a polynomial of one term.

For example – Each algebraic expression can be termed as monomial because of a single term like a, -7b and 4x

•       Exponential equations – Algebraic expressions that occur in exponent form.
  Exponential functions have the form f(x) = bx2
  Where,
  b > 0
  b ≠ 1
•       Trigonometric equations – When unknown angles include one or more trigonometric values, it is known as trigonometric equations denoted by sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant. The word trigonometry has been derived from the Greek words triangle and measure.
•       Logarithmic equations – When the logarithm of the equation contains a variable, that equation is called a logarithmic equation.
  For example :log( 3 x)-5=0
•       Rational equations – Any algebraic equation that occurs when any equation contains one fraction whose numerator and denominator are polynomials.
  For example:2-x/3+x=½

How to make problem-solving interactive in algebra?

Algebra is a daunting and tedious chapter in mathematics for many because of the plethora of formulas, confusing terms, and variables. Here is the rundown of the ways to make problem-solving interactive and fun yet thought stimulating and effective –

• Repetitive color pattern – Usually, patterns repeat like X, O, X, O. Draw some repetitive pattern with any two colors, such as a red circle, blue triangle, red rectangle, and blue square. Now ask your kid to tell which pattern will come next in a row. It will foster their algebraic thinking ability and will harness problem-solving skills.

• Pattern game – Look at yourself and check the color pattern of your cloth. Ask the same to your kid, and they will learn algebra. Surprised? Well, algebra is all about patterns. It will help to develop algebraic thinking in your kid at the initial stages of learning. Identifying the different patterns and learning to differentiate will further make problem-solving interactive for them in the future.

• Pattern library – Distribute different manipulatives such as blocks, cubes, keys, and various shapes that are available. Ask them to make a pattern within 1 minute. Later, ask them the sequence of each pattern chosen by them. It will lead to an interactive session for them, and they will solve the problem quickly.

• Function system – Functions play a cardinal role in algebra. Take a shoebox and cut an opening on the left side and a space on the right side. Inside the case, put a bunch of number cards, from 0 – 100. Give an understudy another arrangement of indistinguishable number cards. You can decide the function of the box — for example, +2 or -1 as per your choice. Ask your kid to guess the machine function accurately. They will learn and solve problems with ease.

• Pattern shout aloud – With the help of small objects available, create a pattern on the table like eat, sleep, study, repeat. Take a few different objects and fabricate a matching pattern like run, sleep, play, enjoy. Now ask your kid to do the same with the objects. It will uplift their pattern thinking skills and will make them ready for complex algebraic patterns like number patterns, Fibonacci patterns, sequences, etc.

• Calculator fun – Convert your calculator into a function machine. For example – The function is +5. Ask your kid to press +, then 2, and then =. Now every time they will press =, it will add 5 to the number. Ask them if they can guess the outputs of the same. It will generate insights about algebraic expression to solve any problem in algebra.

• X number puzzle – We all know that in algebra, x is always considered as unknown. The value of x needs to be figured out in every algebraic expression. Give your kid a three number sentence and ask them to find the value of x. You can also give them clues. For example – x + 4 = 7, x + 0 = 4, and 4 – x = 3. What is the value of x?. They will start by solving simple algebra and will easily move to a higher level gradually.

• We are the same – Put stress on the fact that in an algebraic equation, an equal sign means the same as. Many young school going kids think that = means equal. For instance, the condition 5 + 5 = 5 x 2 can be perused as “five plus five is the same as five times two.” This will strengthen adjusting equations in light of the fact that each side has a similar quantity.

• Storytelling – We all love stories. The most recommended way to make problem-solving interactive is by adding a pinch of storytelling. Make the problem look like a story. For example – x can be called Mr x, y can be called Mr y, and so on. Explain the solution in such a manner that can make learning interactive and enjoyable. Simple yet effective animation videos can be a classic example to narrate the importance of storytelling in mathematics. Stories are memorable and fun.
• Shortcuts – At an early stage, learning is more crucial than in-depth knowledge about algebra. Teach them some unique and fruitful shortcuts, tricks, and hacks that can help them solve the problem nimbly and quickly. It facilitates faster learning and makes problem-solving interactive and enjoyable. 

Conclusion

Without algebra, it is difficult to solve any mathematical equation. It acts as a baseline to solve any problem. Algebra permits you to take any formula, add numbers, and illuminate a condition. Additionally, algebra has gained momentum in numerous different subjects like chemistry, biology, social sciences, engineering, physics, food science, and psychology. You can also Learn Math with Math Games as math games help students explore their basic number combinations and learn mathematics in a fun way. It depends on their mathematical understanding and reasoning. Math games give birth to new ideas in the minds of young kids and make them acclimated to the pattern, difference, and strategies.

Cuemath offers customized learning material for each understudy and trusts in manufacturing a steadfast learning establishment where students feel cherished and learn math in a fun way. It proffers the best learning stage that urges understudies to make and appreciates arithmetic ideas successfully and in an exceptional way that gets conferred in their cerebrums for a more broadened period. Cheerful learning is the best learning!