Thinking With Algebra (TWA) Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology associated with the Thinking With Algebra curriculum, preparing students for understanding and applying algebraic principles in practical settings.

Thinking With Algebra (TWA)

A project funded by the National Science Foundation to develop an algebra curriculum for college classes.

Conceptual Understanding

The ability to grasp the underlying principles and concepts in algebra.

Procedural Fluency

The ability to apply mathematical procedures accurately and efficiently.

Equity in Education

The approach to ensure all students have access to high-quality education, including algebra.

Distributed Practice

An instructional strategy that reinforces learning by revisiting material over time.

Algebraic Structure

The framework that organizes algebraic concepts and processes.

Equivalence

A fundamental property in algebra where two expressions represent the same value.

Slope

A measure of the steepness of a line on a graph, calculated as rise over run.

Absolute Value

The distance of a number from zero on the number line, regardless of direction.

Quadratic Formula

A method for solving quadratic equations given as x = (-b ± √(b^2 - 4ac)) / (2a).

Factoring

The process of breaking down a polynomial into simpler expressions that can be multiplied to obtain the original polynomial.

Inequalities

Mathematical statements that show the relative size of two values, often expressed using

Function

A relation between a set of inputs (domain) and a set of possible outputs (range) where each input is related to exactly one output.

Graphing Rational Expressions

The process of visually representing the relationships defined by rational expressions on a Cartesian plane.

Completion of Square

A method used to convert a quadratic into a perfect square trinomial, often used to simplify solving equations.

Symbol Manipulation

The application of algebraic rules using symbols and variables.

Mixed Review

A teaching method that combines different types of problems to enhance learning and retention.

Proportional Relationships

Relationships between two quantities where their ratio is constant.

Analyzing Patterns

Identifying consistent and predictable sequences in numbers or shapes within algebra.

Unit Measures

Standardized units used to quantify and compare different mathematical elements.