Mathematics for Intermediate II - MIP1502 (MIP1502)
Institution
University Of South Africa (Unisa)
Book
Teaching Mathematics
This document contains workings, explanations and solutions to the MIP1502 Assignment 2 (QUALITY ANSWERS) 2024. For assistance call or us on 0.6.8..8.1.2..0.9.3.4........ Question 1
1.1 Discuss why mathematics teachers in primary school must be concerned with
the concept of equality as soon learn...
The concept of equality is foundational in mathematics, and it is crucial for
primary school teachers to emphasize this when students begin using symbols
for number operations. Understanding equality ensures that students grasp the
concept that both sides of an equation represent the same value, which is
pivotal for their future success in algebra and higher mathematics.
Firstly, an early understanding of equality helps students transition from
arithmetic to algebra. For example, when students see the equation (15 - x =
11), they need to understand that the expression on the left (15 minus some
number) is equal to the number on the right (11). This lays the groundwork for
solving for (x) by recognizing that (x = 4). If students do not understand that
both sides of the equation must be balanced or equal, they might struggle with
the abstraction required in algebra.
Secondly, equality underpins many concepts in mathematics beyond simple
operations. For instance, in geometry, the equality of two angles or sides of a
shape is crucial. In this context, failure to understand equality as a fundamental
principle can lead to misconceptions in broader areas of mathematics.
For a practical classroom example, consider the equation (3 + 4 = 7) and the
equation (7 = 3 + 4). Elementary students must recognize that these are just
different ways of showing the same relationship. Demonstrating this with
physical objects, such as counters or blocks, can help. For instance, placing 3
blocks on one side and 4 on the other while physically combining them to show
7 blocks reinforces that the side by side representation (3 + 4) and the total
number of blocks (7) are indeed equal.
Another example is building on number patterns. By recognizing and continuing
patterns such as 2, 4, 6, 8, students can begin to understand algebraic rules
like (n = 2n), where each term equals the previous term times two. This fosters
algebraic thinking and builds the important bridge from numbers to symbols.
Lastly, equality is vital for understanding operations in other math concepts
such as fractions, where students need to comprehend statements like 1/2 =
2/4 to perform equivalence and simplification.
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