Using Tiles in Algebra
4.1
* Use academic vocabulary (Students/learners are expected to use bold/italicized words)
 Use ELD Strategy
 Effective Teaching Strategy
Overview
This is a six hour workshop on adding and subtracting positive and negative
numbers and polynomials using the Algebra tiles. Students need the full six
hours if they are to teach migrant students using the Algebra tiles.
Objectives
Students will be able to:
 Utilize manipulatives to add and subtract polynomials involving variables,
square variable, and units.
 The students will be able to add/subtract positive and negative numbers
using Algebra tiles.
Vocabulary
Polynomial, cancelling, variable, manipulatives, algebra tiles
Prior Knowledge
Students are able to:
 Mental subtraction/addition of integers
Considerations for ELL and
 Use overhead manipulatives so the students can follow along with their
Migrant Students
manipulatives
 Point to the tiles that you are using and their value
Materials
 Algebra tiles
 Over-head projector
 Packet that is included with this lesson
Into
 Connect to Prior
 Do a quick review of adding positive numbers
Knowledge
 Introduce the algebra tiles and let students explore
 Tell them red is always negative
 What happens if I have a red tile and a blue?
 Show them how to make zeros
 Display a simple problem involving adding a positive number and a negative.
Do 5 or 6 examples
Through
 Strategies
 Visual Representation
 Manipulative



Beyond
 Reflection
 Next steps/Application


Let students ponder a problem; then ask them to show you difficult it is for
them by showing number of fingers one to five.
When students finish the independent practice, review the problems with
volunteers showing their work using tiles on the overhead or drawing on the
board.
Let students know how important it is to understand and be able to
add/subtract positive and negative numbers to get into higher math courses
and pass the CAHSEE.
Once students understand how to add/subtract positive and negative
numbers, you can move on to polynomials.
Follow the same procedures for adding positive/negative and introduce
variables: x, and x squared
4.1
Assessment
Metacognitive Reflection
 Independent Practice problems will be used to assess student’s ability to
understand.
 How can you increase your ability to utilize manipulatives when teaching a
lesson in math?
 How can you pair up students for the guided practice during the lesson?
4.1