“When will I ever need this?” If you are an educator who has taught math, you have heard this question before. But, of course, people use basic math concepts every day, sometimes without even realizing it. Moreover, most jobs involve math, including wide-ranging careers that put algebra to work.
The Hechinger Report describes algebra as a course that “often makes or breaks students’ life chances.” Elementary educators are in the best position to change this for the better.
K–6 teachers can prepare to lead improved achievement in mathematics, including algebra and its linear equations, by earning a Master of Science in Education (MSEd.) in Elementary Math. Graduates of Northwest Missouri State University’s MSEd. in Elementary Math online program satisfy the requirements for elementary math specialist (EMS) advanced teaching certification.
What Are Linear Equations?
“Two trains leave the station” begins the classic algebra problem. The details may vary, but this problem often involves determining when trains departing from different stations will cross paths. Problems involving distance, rate and time commonly use linear equations.
Khan Academy describes a linear equation as “an equation with variable(s) to the first power and one or more constants.” More simply, the goal is “finding the value(s) for the variable(s) that make the equation true.” It might be a few years before your students tackle the train problem, but the math they do throughout the elementary years can help them get there.
Thinking through real-life scenarios for single-step equations helps students build logical reasoning skills for more complex equations: Olivia is saving money to buy a new chew toy for her dog. The toy costs $15. She has saved $8. How much more money does Olivia need to save? If she can save $2 per week, how long will it take to buy the chew toy?
How Does Elementary Math Pave the Way for Algebra Success?
As every teacher knows, connecting academic content to the real world can spark engagement in learning, build more profound understanding and promote a mathematical growth mindset.
Is your class having a bake sale? Will students double, triple or quadruple the recipe? How much will the ingredients cost? How many cookies do students need to sell to break even? What is the potential profit of 100 cookies? 200 cookies? Making predictions is another useful application of linear equations.
In an article for HMH, How to Prepare Elementary School Students for Algebra, Andy Clark offers strategies for integrating algebraic reasoning throughout the elementary grades. For example, consider how students might solve the following problem: “A square table can seat four people. How many square tables are needed to seat 26 people if the tables are put together?”
Scenarios like this engage students in exploring patterns and relationships as they use diverse strategies to solve problems. In the process, they develop functional thinking for algebra success.
How Can Northwest’s MSEd. in Elementary Math Help?
Many students struggle with math, especially algebra. Northwest’s MSEd. in Elementary Math gives teachers the tools to strengthen confidence and ability as students advance in their math education.
Coursework prepares educators with a deeper understanding of mathematics content and helps them improve their math teaching. Mathematics content ranges from pre-number concepts and operations in base ten to geometry to algebraic reasoning. Algebraic Reasoning for EMS, for example, examines the content and complexity of algebraic logic. Topics include representation and analysis of mathematical situations and structures. The coursework also prepares educators with effective mathematic teaching practices, such as facilitating mathematical discourse and promoting productive struggle.
Additional coursework develops leadership competencies, including:
- Data-informed instruction and assessment strategies
- Curriculum development
- Leadership principles and the roles and responsibilities of elementary math specialists
- Strategies for influencing school and district improvement, including mentoring and professional development
Northwest’s program also addresses the need to ensure access and equity in mathematics instruction through structured protocols for culturally responsive teaching practices. Coursework includes lessons to help teachers and students alike explore social injustices.
Do your students dream about designing blockbuster video games, launching shuttles into space or starting businesses? Learners of all ages benefit from connecting academics to career exploration and aspirations. Often called a “gateway” to college, algebra opens the door to more choices than students can imagine.
Earning an MSEd. in Elementary Math from Northwest equips graduates with the expertise and enhanced leadership skills to advance student preparation for the transition to algebra, putting them one step closer to “college and career ready.”
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online MSEd. in Elementary Math program.
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