From Model to Algebra
From Model to Algebra By:"Dr Yeap Ban Har" Published on by Shing Lee Publishers Pte Ltd Algebra is fundamental in the learning of mathematics. In Singapore, students begin the learning of formal algebra in primary six (Singapore Ministry of Education, 2006a). In secondary school, algebra features prominently in the curriculum (Singapore Ministry of Education, 2006b). Prior to learning formal algebra, primary school students use the model method as one of the methods to solve word problems. The model method is one of the most recognised features of the Singapore mathematics curriculum (Singapore Ministry of Education, 2009). It has been found that the model method has allowed primary school students without access to formal algebra a means to represent and solve algebraic word problems (Ng & Lee, 2009). Research has indicated that students encounter a variety of difficulties in formal algebra. These include understanding the meaning of letters used in formal algebra (Kuch...