Algebra involves the use of unknowns in problem solving.  In the pre-algebra study, students are introduced to unknowns at a more sophisticated level than in a regular math class. Once students begin to use equations to model a situation they must become proficient at using the correct order of operations.  This is the accepted methodology for solving "math" problems involving the arithmetic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division as well as the use of grouping symbols (parentheses for example) and exponents.

I begin the course with some problem solving that is not so serious.  Often, students, parents, and grandparents contribute to this time.  Math does not have to be full of skill drill.  It should be about thinking math!

Try these:

1. Use 6 1's and any allowable arithmetic to get the value of 0, to get the value 1, the value of 10, and the values of 100, 1000, and 1,000,000.

   Ok, part of this one is easy 1-1+1-1+1-1 = 0 (try to find other ways) and also

   1 * 1 * 1 * 1 * 1 * 1 = 1

   (11 - 1) * 1 *1 = 10

2. One famous and widely-published problem is called a "magic square" that consists of numbers placed in a grid.   I don't know who to attribute this to but it has been around a long, long time.  the first one we talk about is using the numbers 1 through 9 that are placed in a 3x3 grid so that the sum of every row and every column and every diagonal is the same.

Many times I am asked about the use of calculators.   I think that calculators can help us work faster and also more accurately.  This makes us more efficient.  In class we use graphing calculators but students can get by with a much cheaper model at home.  I recommend that parents provide scientific version with a 2-line display and is also algebraic.  The packages are usually clearly labeled for these features.

So, what is pre-algebra?  It is getting ready to take algebra.  Study your skills.  Get used to showing your work and doing things that take more than one step.

• Can you use fractions, decimals, and percent values easily?  converting fractions and decimals
• Are you comfortable with variables? Can you write equations and solve simple equations? one variable equations
• Have you been introduced to linear equations and graphing points on a coordinate plane?  about lines
• Do you know the distributive property?   The distributive property
• Have you worked with the Pythagorean Theorem?    a squared + b squared = c squared

You might find some help here:  pre algebra sample questions.  This is a general set of questions and samples about things we might study at the pre-algebra level.