The Literacy Project- Curriculum/Activity Description

Date: 4-03

Submitted by: Sharon

Subject: Math: Algebra Card Game for Beginners

Level: all with understanding of basic math operations

Assessment/Evaluation: teacher observation and student self-evaluation

Massachusetts ABE Curriculum Frameworks

Curriculum Framework(s): Math

Strands and Standards addressed:

Strand: Number Sense

Learning Standard: represent and use numbers in a variety of equivalent forms in contextual situations

Strand: Patterns, functions and algebra

Learning Standard: articulate and represent number and data relationships using words [tables, graphs, rules] and equations

Duration: up to 30 minutes

Brief Description (for website index): Algebra Card Game (for beginners)

Lesson Objective(s):

For students to practice using math language, to practice recognition between words and algebraic equations, and for students to practice the “habits of mind” including perseverance, reflectiveness, patience, and openness

Lesson Procedure: Students are reminded of the habits of mind, and given the card game rules and deck of cards to review. One hand is played for practice. Students decide if they wish to play in groups or individually. Game proceeds with the agreement that if rules are to be changed, they have to be agreed upon by everyone (and put in writing). Teacher can observe or play (and observe).

Materials Needed: card game, copies of card game rules, some barricades students can place in front of cards so that others cannot see their hand laid on the table, paper and pen if you wish to keep score.

Special Comments: Some review of words (such as product) may be necessary before game. Some students work hard to develop memory strategies of the discard pile, while other students work to have the patience to understand the cards they have in their hand. More advanced students are able to practice solving their equations too.

Other Related Links and Resources (including citations for original sources):