Even good math students often begin studying of algebra with misunderstanding of place value. The following activity offers middle school students concrete, hands-on experience with the concept of place value and an opportunity to express the concept algebraically. In the process, the difference between digit and number is clarified and number sense is enhanced.
Please follow the link to the parent blog School Crossing for the full activity and the first post of a series I have started of ideas for the new school year. The series will include lesson ideas, tips for teachers, and useful aides.
At the parent blog, you can subscribe through the subscription form at the top of the sidebar. I have heard you can subscribe here at dKos as well, but I am not sure how that works. If you are interested in the upcoming email course for substitute teachers, please send me an email message and I will add you to the list.
Thanks for your encouragement and support.