"To truly engage in mathematics is to become curious and intrigued about regularities and patterns, then describe and explain them. A focus on the behavior of the operations allows students starting in the familiar territory of number and computation to progress to true engagement in the discipline of mathematics." -Susan Jo Russell, Deborah Schifter, and Virginia Bastable Algebra readiness: it's a topic of concern that seems to pervade every school district. How can we better prepare elementary students for algebra? More importantly, how can we help all children, not just those who excel in math, become ready for later instruction? The answer lies not in additional content, but in developing a way of thinking about the mathematics that underlies both arithmetic and algebra. Connecting Arithmetic to Algebra invites readers to learn about a crucial component of algebraic thinking: investigating the behavior of the operations. Nationally-known math educators Susan Jo Russell, Deborah Schifter, and Virginia Bastable and a group of collaborating teachers describe how elementary teachers can shape their instruction so that students learn to: *notice and describe consistencies across problems *articulate generalizations about the behavior of the operations *develop mathematical arguments based on representations to explain why such generalizations are or are not true. Through such work, students become familiar with properties and general rules that underlie computational strategies-including those that form the basis of strategies used in algebra-strengthening their understanding of grade-level content and at the same time preparing them for future studies. Each chapter is illustrated by lively episodes drawn from the classrooms of collaborating teachers in a wide range of settings. These provide examples of posing problems, engaging students in productive discussion, using representations to develop mathematical arguments, and supporting both students with a wide range of learning profiles. Staff Developers: Available online, the Course Facilitator's Guide provides math leaders with tools and resources for implementing a Connecting Arithmetic to Algebra workshop or preservice course. For information on the PD course offered through Mount Holyoke College, download the flyer.

Research has shown that algebra is the doorway and gateway for future success of students in many aspects, including high school graduation, attending and success in college, and professional earning power. And the most important key to students’ success in algebra is their readiness. This book is not only a program that addresses algebra readiness; it is also a fundamental reform effort, based on the National Mathematics Advisory Panel’s (NMAP’s) Final Report (spring, 2008). The book approaches mathematic skills deficiencies on an individual basis, much like an IEP addresses the individual needs of a student with disabilities. The Reaching Algebra Readiness (RAR) process consists of four components: (1) Diagnostic, assessing student’s mastery of the skills needed to take algebra; (2) Prescriptive, developing an individualized plan to address specific math deficiencies; (3) Intervention, utilizing tools and resources (parental involvement, effective teaching strategies, etc), to improve students’ mathematics skills; and (4) Drills and Effective Teachings Strategies, mathematics is a discipline and, simply, there is no way of avoiding practice and drilling in reaching algebra readiness, which can be enhanced significantly by implementing proven effective teaching strategies. The Reaching Algebra Readiness (RAR) process and the related materials presented in this book will be revolutionary in helping all students acquire the math skills needed for success in algebra and beyond. This book is a must-guide for math teachers, parents who home school, parents who are looking for solutions, and educators pursuing fundamental education reforms.