Teaching Algebra

• 1). Draw pictures. Every time you introduce a new algebraic concept, draw a picture. Pictures that tie the concept to previous skills and ideas are particularly useful. Look at a range of algebra textbooks to find illustrations that seem straightforward and explanatory in a "big picture" way. Think of new ways to approach and explain graphing.
  
  
• 2). Teach the "Big Picture." Discuss the ways in which algebra concepts relate to everyday problems as well as other school subjects. If you are a classroom teacher, offer extra credit to students who bring in examples of "real" problems they encountered. This will encourage them to think about algebra in their off time and incorporate it into their long term memories.
  
  
• 3). Have students practice recognizing concepts in context. Many times, students can solve problems given to them but can't tell when to use which skill on a test. Save time by giving practice problems where the only goal is to label each problem with the type of skill it requires.
  
  
• 4). Ask questions. As students improve in their knowledge of Algebra, start challenging them to answer thought-provoking questions, not the "what is the answer?" type. Keep the questions level appropriate and don't ever think that a question is too simple--it is surprising how useful very basic questions can be. If the students can verbalize what they know, they are more likely to retain it.
  
  
• 5). Give quizzes for memorization and tests for conceptual learning. Get students to memorize needed formulas or tables before big tests come around by giving quizzes ahead of time. They can then concentrate their homework energy on understanding and practicing instead of trying to remember.
  
  
• 6). Make sure that students do their homework. Although grading can be tedious for teachers, it is the best way to keep track of each student's progress and ensure that all are getting the practice needed to grasp algebra.
  
  
• 7). Instill confidence. Give students specific praise and teach on as much of an individual level as the curriculum will allow. Adjust the pace of the class so that there aren't students moving on to the next algebra concept while lost on other recent ones.
  
  
• 8). Simplify and don't get bogged down in details when dealing with graphing. Help students understand the basics of the shape of a graph and the transformations that it makes in response to changes in numbers. Identify large patterns and explain concepts in terms of them.