The effects of an integrated Algebra 1/physical science curriculum on student achievement in Algebra 1, proportional reasoning and graphing abilities

Science.gov (United States)

Lawrence, Lettie Carol

1997-08-01

The purpose of this investigation was to determine if an integrated curriculum in algebra 1/physical science facilitates acquisition of proportional reasoning and graphing abilities better than a non-integrated, traditional, algebra 1 curriculum. Also, this study was to ascertain if the integrated algebra 1/physical science curriculum resulted in greater student achievement in algebra 1. The curriculum used in the experimental class was SAM 9 (Science and Mathematics 9), an investigation-based curriculum that was written to integrate physical science and basic algebra content. The experiment was conducted over one school year. The subjects in the study were 61 ninth grade students. The experimental group consisted of one class taught concurrently by a mathematics teacher and a physical science teacher. The control group consisted of three classes of algebra 1 students taught by one mathematics teacher and taking physical science with other teachers in the school who were not participating in the SAM 9 program. This study utilized a quasi-experimental non-randomized control group pretest-posttest design. The investigator obtained end-of-algebra 1 scores from student records. The written open-ended graphing instruments and the proportional reasoning instrument were administered to both groups as pretests and posttests. The graphing instruments were also administered as a midtest. A two sample t-test for independent means was used to determine significant differences in achievement on the end-of-course algebra 1 test. Quantitative data from the proportional reasoning and graphing instruments were analyzed using a repeated measures analysis of variance to determine differences in scores over time for the experimental and control groups. The findings indicate no significant difference between the experimental and control groups on the end-of-course algebra 1 test. Results also indicate no significant differences in proportional reasoning and graphing abilities between

Ready, Set, Algebra?

Science.gov (United States)

Levy, Alissa Beth

2012-01-01

The California Department of Education (CDE) has long asserted that success Algebra I by Grade 8 is the goal for all California public school students. In fact, the state's accountability system penalizes schools that do not require all of their students to take the Algebra I end-of-course examination by Grade 8 (CDE, 2009). In this dissertation,…

Mathematica empowered applets for learning school algebra and calculus

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Heck, A.; Boon, P.; van Velthoven, W.

2008-01-01

We describe the development and use of Mathematica empowered applets for learning and practising algebra and calculus at secondary school level. We discuss how Mathematica can be used as back engine to evaluate students' answers and provide appropriate feedback. These applets provide scoring

Characterizing the Nature of Students' Feature Noticing-and-Using with Respect to Mathematical Symbols across Different Levels of Algebra Exposure

Science.gov (United States)

Sullivan, Patrick

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study is to examine the nature of what students notice about symbols and use as they solve unfamiliar algebra problems based on familiar algebra concepts and involving symbolic inscriptions. The researcher conducted a study of students at three levels of algebra exposure: (a) students enrolled in a high school pre-calculus…

Teaching Strategies to Improve Algebra Learning

Science.gov (United States)

Zbiek, Rose Mary; Larson, Matthew R.

2015-01-01

Improving student learning is the primary goal of every teacher of algebra. Teachers seek strategies to help all students learn important algebra content and develop mathematical practices. The new Institute of Education Sciences[IES] practice guide, "Teaching Strategies for Improving Algebra Knowledge in Middle and High School Students"…

Algebra for All: California's Eighth-Grade Algebra Initiative as Constrained Curricula.

Science.gov (United States)

Domina, Thurston; Penner, Andrew M; Penner, Emily K; Conley, Annemarie

2014-08-01

Across the United States, secondary school curricula are intensifying as a growing proportion of students enroll in high-level academic math courses. In many districts, this intensification process occurs as early as eighth grade, where schools are effectively constraining their mathematics curricula by restricting course offerings and placing more students into Algebra I. This paper provides a quantitative single-case research study of policy-driven curricular intensification in one California school district. (1a) What effect did 8th eighth grade curricular intensification have on mathematics course enrollment patterns in Towering Pines Unified schools? (2b) How did the distribution of prior achievement in Towering Pines math classrooms change as the district constrained the curriculum by universalizing 8th eighth grade Algebra? (3c) Did 8th eighth grade curricular intensification improve students' mathematics achievement? Towering Pines is an immigrant enclave in the inner-ring suburbs of a major metropolitan area. The district's 10 middle schools together enroll approximately 4,000 eighth graders each year. The districts' students are ethnically diverse and largely economically disadvantaged. The study draws upon administrative data describing 8th eighth graders in the district in the 2004-20-05 through 2007-20-08 school years. During the study period, Towering Pines dramatically intensified middle school students' math curricula: In the 2004-20-05 school year 32% of the district's 8th eighth graders enrolled in Algebra or a higher- level mathematics course; by the 2007-20-08 school year that proportion had increased to 84%. We use an interrupted time-series design, comparing students' 8th eighth grade math course enrollments, 10th grade math course enrollments, and 10th grade math test scores across the four cohorts, controlling for demographics and prior achievement. We find that students' odds of taking higher level mathematics courses increased as this

Matematica Para La Escuela Secundaria, Primer Curso de Algebra (Parte 1). Traduccion Preliminar de la Edicion Inglesa Revisada. (Mathematics for High School, First Course in Algebra, Part 1. Preliminary Translation of the Revised English Edition).

Science.gov (United States)

Allen, Frank B.; And Others

This is the student text for part one of a three-part SMSG algebra course for high school students. The principal objective of the text is to help the student develop an understanding and appreciation of some of the algebraic structure as a basis for the techniques of algebra. Chapter topics include congruence; numbers and variables; operations;…

The Effects of Teacher Collective Responsibility on the Mathematics Achievement of Students Who Repeat Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Morales-Chicas, Jessica; Agger, Charlotte

2017-01-01

In this article, the authors use the national High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 (HSLS:09) dataset to explore (a) if repeating algebra in the eighth grade was associated with overall mathematics grades and course-taking patterns by twelfth grade, (b) if repeating algebra in the eighth grade was associated with students' final grade in algebra,…

Introducing Algebra through the Graphical Representation of Functions: A Study among LD Students

Science.gov (United States)

Sauriol, Jennifer

2013-01-01

This longitudinal study evaluates the impact of a new Algebra 1 course at a High School for language-based learning-disabled (LD) students. The new course prioritized the teaching of relationship graphs and functions as an introduction to algebra. Across three studies, the dissertation documents and evaluates the progress made by LD high school…

Algebraic Thinking: Conceptions of Elementary School Teachers

OpenAIRE

Rodrigues Rézio, Ana Sofia

2015-01-01

Students’ algebraic reasoning, at the beginning of their schooling years, includes the development and promotion of functional thinking and the understanding of mathematical properties, which can be stimulated by solving problems. In the latest Portuguese Program for Mathematics Elementary Education, we do not see the topic Algebra in the first year of school although some other topics include objectives of algebraic nature. This fact showed the importance of research about the introduction o...

UCSMP Algebra. What Works Clearinghouse Intervention Report

Science.gov (United States)

What Works Clearinghouse, 2007

2007-01-01

"University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) Algebra," designed to increase students' skills in algebra, is appropriate for students in grades 7-10, depending on the students' incoming knowledge. This one-year course highlights applications, uses statistics and geometry to develop the algebra of linear equations and inequalities, and…

Primary School Students' Strategies in Early Algebra Problem Solving Supported by an Online Game

Science.gov (United States)

van den Heuvel-Panhuizen, Marja; Kolovou, Angeliki; Robitzsch, Alexander

2013-01-01

In this study we investigated the role of a dynamic online game on students' early algebra problem solving. In total 253 students from grades 4, 5, and 6 (10-12 years old) used the game at home to solve a sequence of early algebra problems consisting of contextual problems addressing covarying quantities. Special software monitored the…

Does Early Algebraic Reasoning Differ as a Function of Students' Difficulty with Calculations versus Word Problems?

Science.gov (United States)

Powell, Sarah R; Fuchs, Lynn S

2014-08-01

According to national mathematics standards, algebra instruction should begin at kindergarten and continue through elementary school. Most often, teachers address algebra in the elementary grades with problems related to solving equations or understanding functions. With 789 2 nd - grade students, we administered (a) measures of calculations and word problems in the fall and (b) an assessment of pre-algebraic reasoning, with items that assessed solving equations and functions, in the spring. Based on the calculation and word-problem measures, we placed 148 students into 1 of 4 difficulty status categories: typically performing, calculation difficulty, word-problem difficulty, or difficulty with calculations and word problems. Analyses of variance were conducted on the 148 students; path analytic mediation analyses were conducted on the larger sample of 789 students. Across analyses, results corroborated the finding that word-problem difficulty is more strongly associated with difficulty with pre-algebraic reasoning. As an indicator of later algebra difficulty, word-problem difficulty may be a more useful predictor than calculation difficulty, and students with word-problem difficulty may require a different level of algebraic reasoning intervention than students with calculation difficulty.

Matematica Para La Escuela Secundaria, Primer Curso de Algebra (Parte 2). Traduccion Preliminar de la Edicion Inglesa Revisada. (Mathematics for High School, First Course in Algebra, Part 2. Preliminary Translation of the Revised English Edition).

Science.gov (United States)

Allen, Frank B.; And Others

This is part two of a three-part SMSG algebra text for high school students. The principal objective of the text is to help the student develop an understanding and appreciation of some of the algebraic structure as a basis for the techniques of algebra. Chapter topics include addition and multiplication of real numbers, subtraction and division…

Cooperative learning and algebra performance of eighth grade students in United Arab Emirates.

Science.gov (United States)

Alkhateeb, Haitham M; Jumaa, Mustafa

2002-02-01

This study investigated the effect of cooperative learning on eighth grade students' performance in algebra. 54 boys and 57 girls in four middle-school mathematics classes of Grade 8 in the UAE participated. Over a 3-wk. period, two classes (57 students) were taught using a cooperative learning method, and the other two classes (54 students) were taught using the traditional lecture method. Analysis of covariance using pretest scores as a covariant showed no statistically significant increase in the algebra performance for students in the cooperative learning groups compared with the traditional groups. However, boys in the cooperative setting improved significantly on the performance test compared with boys in the traditional setting.

Unifying the Algebra for All Movement

Science.gov (United States)

Eddy, Colleen M.; Quebec Fuentes, Sarah; Ward, Elizabeth K.; Parker, Yolanda A.; Cooper, Sandi; Jasper, William A.; Mallam, Winifred A.; Sorto, M. Alejandra; Wilkerson, Trena L.

2015-01-01

There exists an increased focus on school mathematics, especially first-year algebra, due to recent efforts for all students to be college and career ready. In addition, there are calls, policies, and legislation advocating for all students to study algebra epitomized by four rationales of the "Algebra for All" movement. In light of this…

Structure Sense in High School Algebra: The Effect of Brackets

Science.gov (United States)

Hoch, Maureen; Dreyfus, Tommy

2005-01-01

This paper presents an initial attempt to define structure sense for high school algebra and to test part of this definition. A questionnaire was distributed to 92 eleventh grade students in order to identify those who use structure sense. Presence and absence of brackets was examined to see how they affect use of structure sense. The overall use…

Matematica Para La Escuela Secundaria, Primer Curso de Algebra (Parte 1), Comentario. Traduccion Preliminar de la Edicion en Ingles Revisada. (Mathematics for High School, First Course in Algebra, Part 1, Teacher's Commentary. Translation of the Revised English Edition).

Science.gov (United States)

Allen, Frank B.; And Others

This is the teacher's commentary for part one of a three-part SMSG algebra text for high school students. The principal objective of the text is to help the student develop an understanding and appreciation of some of the algebraic structure as a basis for the techniques of algebra. Chapter topics include congruence; numbers and variables;…

Eighth Grade Algebra Course Placement and Student Motivation for Mathematics

Science.gov (United States)

Simzar, Rahila M.; Domina, Thurston; Tran, Cathy

2016-01-01

This study uses student panel data to examine the association between Algebra placement and student motivation for mathematics. Changes in achievement goals, expectancy, and task value for students in eighth grade Algebra are compared with those of peers placed in lower-level mathematics courses (N = 3,306). In our sample, students placed in Algebra reported an increase in performance-avoidance goals as well as decreases in academic self-efficacy and task value. These relations were attenuated for students who had high mathematics achievement prior to Algebra placement. Whereas all students reported an overall decline in performance-approach goals over the course of eighth grade, previously high-achieving students reported an increase in these goals. Lastly, previously high-achieving students reported an increase in mastery goals. These findings suggest that while previously high-achieving students may benefit motivationally from eighth grade Algebra placement, placing previously average- and low-performing students in Algebra can potentially undermine their motivation for mathematics. PMID:26942210

Eighth Grade Algebra Course Placement and Student Motivation for Mathematics.

Science.gov (United States)

Simzar, Rahila M; Domina, Thurston; Tran, Cathy

2016-01-01

This study uses student panel data to examine the association between Algebra placement and student motivation for mathematics. Changes in achievement goals, expectancy, and task value for students in eighth grade Algebra are compared with those of peers placed in lower-level mathematics courses (N = 3,306). In our sample, students placed in Algebra reported an increase in performance-avoidance goals as well as decreases in academic self-efficacy and task value. These relations were attenuated for students who had high mathematics achievement prior to Algebra placement. Whereas all students reported an overall decline in performance-approach goals over the course of eighth grade, previously high-achieving students reported an increase in these goals. Lastly, previously high-achieving students reported an increase in mastery goals. These findings suggest that while previously high-achieving students may benefit motivationally from eighth grade Algebra placement, placing previously average- and low-performing students in Algebra can potentially undermine their motivation for mathematics.

Build an Early Foundation for Algebra Success

Science.gov (United States)

Knuth, Eric; Stephens, Ana; Blanton, Maria; Gardiner, Angela

2016-01-01

Research tells us that success in algebra is a factor in many other important student outcomes. Emerging research also suggests that students who are started on an algebra curriculum in the earlier grades may have greater success in the subject in secondary school. What's needed is a consistent, algebra-infused mathematics curriculum all…

Does Early Algebraic Reasoning Differ as a Function of Students' Difficulty with Calculations versus Word Problems?

Science.gov (United States)

Powell, Sarah R.; Fuchs, Lynn S.

2014-01-01

According to national mathematics standards, algebra instruction should begin at kindergarten and continue through elementary school. Most often, teachers address algebra in the elementary grades with problems related to solving equations or understanding functions. With 789 second-grade students, we administered: (1) measures of calculations and…

A Balancing Act: Making Sense of Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Gavin, M. Katherine; Sheffield, Linda Jensen

2015-01-01

For most students, algebra seems like a totally different subject than the number topics they studied in elementary school. In reality, the procedures followed in arithmetic are actually based on the properties and laws of algebra. Algebra should be a logical next step for students in extending the proficiencies they developed with number topics…

Matematica Para La Escuela Secundaria, Primer Curso de Algebra (Parte 2), Comentario. Traduccion Preliminar de la Edicion en Ingles Revisada. (Mathematics for High School, First Course in Algebra, Part 2, Teacher's Commentary. Preliminary Translation of the Revised English Edition).

Science.gov (United States)

Allen, Frank B.; And Others

This is the teacher's commentary for part two of a three-part SMSG algebra text for high school students. The principal objective of the text is to help the student develop an understanding and appreciation of some of the algebraic structure as a basis for the techniques of algebra. Chapter topics include addition and multiplication of real…

Developing Students' Functional Thinking in Algebra through Different Visualisations of a Growing Pattern's Structure

Science.gov (United States)

Wilkie, Karina J,; Clarke, Doug

2014-01-01

This design-based research project investigated the development of functional thinking in algebra for the upper primary years of schooling. Ten teachers and their students were involved in a sequence of five cycles of collaborative planning, team-teaching, evaluating and revising five lessons on functional thinking for their students over one…

Elementary Algebra + Student-Written Web Illustrations = Math Mastery.

Science.gov (United States)

Veteto, Bette R.

This project focuses on the construction and use of a student-made elementary algebra tutorial World Wide Web page at the University of Memphis (Tennessee), how this helps students further explore the topics studied in elementary algebra, and how students can publish their work on the class Web page for use by other students. Practical,…

District Decision-Makers' Considerations of Equity and Equality Related to Students' Opportunities to Learn Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Herbel-Eisenmann, Beth A.; Keazer, Lindsay; Traynor, Anne

2018-01-01

Background/Context: In this article we explore equity issues related to school district decision-making about students' opportunities to learn algebra. We chose algebra because of the important role it plays in the U.S. as a gatekeeper to future academic success. Current research has not yet explored issues of equity in district-level…

The Effect of Using Microsoft Excel in a High School Algebra Class

Science.gov (United States)

Neurath, Rachel A.; Stephens, Larry J.

2006-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of integrating Microsoft Excel into a high school algebra class. The results indicate a slight increase in student achievement when Excel was used. A teacher-created final exam and two Criterion Referenced Tests measured success. One of the Criterion Referenced Tests indicated that the…

Using Student Work to Develop Teachers' Knowledge of Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Herbel-Eisenmann, Beth A.; Phillips, Elizabeth Difanis

2005-01-01

This article describes a set of learning activities that use algebraic problems and written student work to help preservice and in-service teachers understand students' algebraic thinking. (Contains 4 figures.)

Algebra for All: California’s Eighth-Grade Algebra Initiative as Constrained Curricula

Science.gov (United States)

Domina, Thurston; Penner, Andrew M.; Penner, Emily K.; Conley, Annemarie

2015-01-01

Background/Context Across the United States, secondary school curricula are intensifying as a growing proportion of students enroll in high-level academic math courses. In many districts, this intensification process occurs as early as eighth grade, where schools are effectively constraining their mathematics curricula by restricting course offerings and placing more students into Algebra I. This paper provides a quantitative single-case research study of policy-driven curricular intensification in one California school district. Research Questions (1a) What effect did 8th eighth grade curricular intensification have on mathematics course enrollment patterns in Towering Pines Unified schools? (2b) How did the distribution of prior achievement in Towering Pines math classrooms change as the district constrained the curriculum by universalizing 8th eighth grade Algebra? (3c) Did 8th eighth grade curricular intensification improve students’ mathematics achievement? Setting Towering Pines is an immigrant enclave in the inner-ring suburbs of a major metropolitan area. The district’s 10 middle schools together enroll approximately 4,000 eighth graders each year. The districts’ students are ethnically diverse and largely economically disadvantaged. The study draws upon administrative data describing 8th eighth graders in the district in the 2004–20-05 through 2007–20-08 school years. Intervention/Program/Practice During the study period, Towering Pines dramatically intensified middle school students’ math curricula: In the 2004–20-05 school year 32% of the district’s 8th eighth graders enrolled in Algebra or a higher- level mathematics course; by the 2007–20-08 school year that proportion had increased to 84%. Research Design We use an interrupted time-series design, comparing students’ 8th eighth grade math course enrollments, 10th grade math course enrollments, and 10th grade math test scores across the four cohorts, controlling for demographics and

Algebra II textbook for students of mathematics

CERN Document Server

Gorodentsev, Alexey L

2017-01-01

This book is the second volume of an intensive “Russian-style” two-year undergraduate course in abstract algebra, and introduces readers to the basic algebraic structures – fields, rings, modules, algebras, groups, and categories – and explains the main principles of and methods for working with them. The course covers substantial areas of advanced combinatorics, geometry, linear and multilinear algebra, representation theory, category theory, commutative algebra, Galois theory, and algebraic geometry – topics that are often overlooked in standard undergraduate courses. This textbook is based on courses the author has conducted at the Independent University of Moscow and at the Faculty of Mathematics in the Higher School of Economics. The main content is complemented by a wealth of exercises for class discussion, some of which include comments and hints, as well as problems for independent study.

Algebra I textbook for students of mathematics

CERN Document Server

Gorodentsev, Alexey L

2016-01-01

This book is the first volume of an intensive “Russian-style” two-year undergraduate course in abstract algebra, and introduces readers to the basic algebraic structures – fields, rings, modules, algebras, groups, and categories – and explains the main principles of and methods for working with them. The course covers substantial areas of advanced combinatorics, geometry, linear and multilinear algebra, representation theory, category theory, commutative algebra, Galois theory, and algebraic geometry – topics that are often overlooked in standard undergraduate courses. This textbook is based on courses the author has conducted at the Independent University of Moscow and at the Faculty of Mathematics in the Higher School of Economics. The main content is complemented by a wealth of exercises for class discussion, some of which include comments and hints, as well as problems for independent study.

Dienes AEM as an alternative mathematics teaching aid to enhance Indonesian students’ understanding of algebra concept

Science.gov (United States)

Soro, S.; Maarif, S.; Kurniawan, Y.; Raditya, A.

2018-01-01

The aim of this study is to find out the effect of Dienes AEM (Algebra Experience Materials) on the ability of understanding concept of algebra on the senior high school student in Indonesia. This research is an experimental research with subject of all high school students in Indonesia. The samples taken were high school students in three provinces namely DKI Jakarta Province, West Java Province and Banten Province. From each province was taken senior high school namely SMA N 9 Bekasi West Java, SMA N 94 Jakarta and SMA N 5 Tangerang, Banten. The number of samples in this study was 114 high school students of tenth grade as experimental class and 115 high school students of tenth grade as control class. Learning algebra concept is needed in learning mathematics, besides it is needed especially to educate students to be able to think logically, systematically, critically, analytically, creatively, and cooperation. Therefore in this research will be developed an effective algebra learning by using Dienes AEM. The result of this research is that there is a significant influence on the students’ concept comprehension ability taught by using Dienes AEM learning as an alternative to instill the concept of algebra compared to the students taught by conventional learning. Besides, the students’ learning motivation increases because students can construct the concept of algebra with props.

A Proposed Algebra Assessment for Use in a Problem-Analysis Framework

Science.gov (United States)

Walick, Christopher M.; Burns, Matthew K.

2017-01-01

Algebra is critical to high school graduation and college success, but student achievement in algebra frequently falls significantly below expected proficiency levels. While existing research emphasizes the importance of quality algebra instruction, there is little research about how to conduct problem analysis for struggling secondary students.…

Students’ Algebraic Thinking Process in Context of Point and Line Properties

Science.gov (United States)

Nurrahmi, H.; Suryadi, D.; Fatimah, S.

2017-09-01

Learning of schools algebra is limited to symbols and operating procedures, so students are able to work on problems that only require the ability to operate symbols but unable to generalize a pattern as one of part of algebraic thinking. The purpose of this study is to create a didactic design that facilitates students to do algebraic thinking process through the generalization of patterns, especially in the context of the property of point and line. This study used qualitative method and includes Didactical Design Research (DDR). The result is students are able to make factual, contextual, and symbolic generalization. This happen because the generalization arises based on facts on local terms, then the generalization produced an algebraic formula that was described in the context and perspective of each student. After that, the formula uses the algebraic letter symbol from the symbol t hat uses the students’ language. It can be concluded that the design has facilitated students to do algebraic thinking process through the generalization of patterns, especially in the context of property of the point and line. The impact of this study is this design can use as one of material teaching alternative in learning of school algebra.

A Study of Students' Achievement in Algebra: Considering the Effect of Gender and Types of Schools

Science.gov (United States)

Saleh, Salmiza; Rahman, Muhamad Asyrah Abdul

2016-01-01

Algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with symbols and also the rules for manipulating those symbols, which are used to represent numbers and quantities in mathematical formulae and equations. It is needed and used in our everyday lives. The purpose of this study was to examine students' performance in algebra related to gender and types…

Linear Algebra Revisited: An Attempt to Understand Students' Conceptual Difficulties

Science.gov (United States)

Britton, Sandra; Henderson, Jenny

2009-01-01

This article looks at some of the conceptual difficulties that students have in a linear algebra course. An overview of previous research in this area is given, and the various theories that have been espoused regarding the reasons that students find linear algebra so difficult are discussed. Student responses to two questions testing the ability…

Strategies Utilized by Superintendents and Mathematics District Personnel That Impact Minority Student Outcomes in Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

DuPree, Jared Bernard

2013-01-01

This study applies the constructs from effective instruction from the literature on teacher education to understand the impact of school district strategies on algebra outcomes for minority students. The purpose of this study was to examine the strategies utilized by superintendents and district personnel and the impact of these identified…

Just Say Yes to Early Algebra!

Science.gov (United States)

Stephens, Ana; Blanton, Maria; Knuth, Eric; Isler, Isil; Gardiner, Angela Murphy

2015-01-01

Mathematics educators have argued for some time that elementary school students are capable of engaging in algebraic thinking and should be provided with rich opportunities to do so. Recent initiatives like the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM) (CCSSI 2010) have taken up this call by reiterating the place of early algebra in…

Thinking Visually about Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Baroudi, Ziad

2015-01-01

Many introductions to algebra in high school begin with teaching students to generalise linear numerical patterns. This article argues that this approach needs to be changed so that students encounter variables in the context of modelling visual patterns so that the variables have a meaning. The article presents sample classroom activities,…

Learning to Apply Algebra in the Community for Adults with Intellectual Developmental Disabilities

Science.gov (United States)

Rodriguez, Anthony M.

2016-01-01

Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are routinely excluded from algebra and other high-level mathematics courses. High school students with IDD take courses in arithmetic and life skills rather than having an opportunity to learn algebra. Yet algebra skills can support the learning of money and budgeting skills. This…

Student and Instructor Perceptions of a Flipped College Algebra Classroom

Science.gov (United States)

Jaster, Robert W.

2017-01-01

Each year about half a million students fail to make planned academic progress due to college algebra, hence the need for researchers to find ways of improving the quality of instruction in the course. Recent research suggests that flipping college algebra to allow time for active learning in the classroom may improve student performance. Also,…

Algebraic Thinking in Solving Linier Program at High School Level: Female Student’s Field Independent Cognitive Style

Science.gov (United States)

Hardiani, N.; Budayasa, I. K.; Juniati, D.

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to describe algebraic thinking of high school female student’s field independent cognitive style in solving linier program problem by revealing deeply the female students’ responses. Subjects in this study were 7 female students having field independent cognitive style in class 11. The type of this research was descriptive qualitative. The method of data collection used was observation, documentation, and interview. Data analysis technique was by reduction, presentation, and conclusion. The results of this study showed that the female students with field independent cognitive style in solving the linier program problem had the ability to represent algebraic ideas from the narrative question that had been read by manipulating symbols and variables presented in tabular form, creating and building mathematical models in two variables linear inequality system which represented algebraic ideas, and interpreting the solutions as variables obtained from the point of intersection in the solution area to obtain maximum benefit.

Questions Arise about Algebra 2 for All Students

Science.gov (United States)

Robelen, Erik W.

2013-01-01

Should all students take Algebra 2? Florida seemed to say "no" this spring with the passage of a law striking it from graduation requirements. Texas said much the same in legislation Republican Gov. Rick Perry signed this week that also backs away from Algebra 2 for all. Those steps come as the Common Core State Standards for math set…

Opening a Gateway to College Access: Algebra at the Right Time. Research Brief

Science.gov (United States)

Snipes, Jason; Finkelstein, Neal

2015-01-01

Four years of math in high school, with a strong foundation in algebra that builds from middle school, is key to higher education access. Therefore, ensuring that middle and high school students succeed in math--and in algebra in particular--is an important issue for policy and practice. This research brief examines three recent Regional…

Students’ Algebraic Reasonsing In Solving Mathematical Problems With Adversity Quotient

Science.gov (United States)

Aryani, F.; Amin, S. M.; Sulaiman, R.

2018-01-01

Algebraic reasoning is a process in which students generalize mathematical ideas from a set of particular instances and express them in increasingly formal and age-appropriate ways. Using problem solving approach to develop algebraic reasoning of mathematics may enhace the long-term learning trajectory of the majority students. The purpose of this research was to describe the algebraic reasoning of quitter, camper, and climber junior high school students in solving mathematical problems. This research used qualitative descriptive method. Subjects were determined by purposive sampling. The technique of collecting data was done by task-based interviews.The results showed that the algebraic reasoning of three students in the process of pattern seeking by identifying the things that are known and asked in a similar way. But three students found the elements of pattern recognition in different ways or method. So, they are generalize the problem of pattern formation with different ways. The study of algebraic reasoning and problem solving can be a learning paradigm in the improve students’ knowledge and skills in algebra work. The goal is to help students’ improve academic competence, develop algebraic reasoning in problem solving.

Utilization of variation theory in the classroom: Effect on students' algebraic achievement and motivation

Science.gov (United States)

Jing, Ting Jing; Tarmizi, Rohani Ahmad; Bakar, Kamariah Abu; Aralas, Dalia

2017-01-01

This study investigates the effect of utilizing Variation Theory Based Strategy on students' algebraic achievement and motivation in learning algebra. The study used quasi-experimental non-equivalent control group research design and involved 56 Form Two (Secondary Two) students in two classes (28 in experimental group, 28 in control group) in Malaysia The first class of students went through algebra class taught with Variation Theory Based Strategy (VTBS) while the second class of students experienced conventional teaching strategy. The instruments used for the study were a 24-item Algebra Test and 36-item Instructional Materials Motivation Survey. Result from analysis of Covariance indicated that experimental group students achieved significantly better test scores than control group. Result of Multivariate Analysis of Variance also shows evidences of significant effect of VTBS on experimental students' overall motivation in all the five subscales; attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. These results suggested the utilization of VTBS would improve students' learning in algebra.

Algebra? There's an App for That: Florida Goes Online with Math Support for Teachers and Students

Science.gov (United States)

Schackow, Joy Bronston; Cugini, Stephanie

2016-01-01

The transition to Common Core State Standards for Mathematics has created a need for high-quality professional learning on content and pedagogy. This is especially true for algebra 1 teachers in Florida, where students must pass a standards-based exam as a requirement to earning a high school diploma. Time, distance, and cost constraints can get…

Flipping College Algebra: Effects on Student Engagement and Achievement

Science.gov (United States)

Ichinose, Cherie; Clinkenbeard, Jennifer

2016-01-01

This study compared student engagement and achievement levels between students enrolled in a traditional college algebra lecture course and students enrolled in a "flipped" course. Results showed that students in the flipped class had consistently higher levels of achievement throughout the course than did students in the traditional…

Diagnosing students' misconceptions in algebra: results from an experimental pilot study.

Science.gov (United States)

Russell, Michael; O'Dwyer, Laura M; Miranda, Helena

2009-05-01

Computer-based diagnostic assessment systems hold potential to help teachers identify sources of poor performance and to connect teachers and students to learning activities designed to help advance students' conceptual understandings. The present article presents findings from a study that examined how students' performance in algebra and their overcoming of common algebraic misconceptions were affected by the use of a diagnostic assessment system that focused on important algebra concepts. This study used a four-group randomized cluster trial design in which teachers were assigned randomly to one of four groups: a "business as usual" control group, a partial intervention group that was provided with access to diagnostic tests results, a partial intervention group that was provided with access to the learning activities, and a full intervention group that was given access to the test results and learning activities. Data were collected from 905 students (6th-12th grade) nested within 44 teachers. We used hierarchical linear modeling techniques to compare the effects of full, partial, and no (control) intervention on students' algebraic ability and misconceptions. The analyses indicate that full intervention had a net positive effect on ability and misconception measures.

Basic abstract algebra for graduate students and advanced undergraduates

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Ash, Robert B

2006-01-01

Geared toward upper-level undergraduates and graduate students, this text surveys fundamental algebraic structures and maps between these structures. Its techniques are used in many areas of mathematics, with applications to physics, engineering, and computer science as well. Author Robert B. Ash, a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Illinois, focuses on intuitive thinking. He also conveys the intrinsic beauty of abstract algebra while keeping the proofs as brief and clear as possible.The early chapters provide students with background by investigating the basic properties of groups

University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) Algebra. WWC Intervention Report

Science.gov (United States)

What Works Clearinghouse, 2009

2009-01-01

University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) Algebra is a one-year course covering three primary topics: (1) linear and quadratic expressions, sentences, and functions; (2) exponential expressions and functions; and (3) linear systems. Topics from geometry, probability, and statistics are integrated with the appropriate algebra.…

Hearing Math: Algebra Supported eText for Students With Visual Impairments.

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Bouck, Emily C; Weng, Pei-Lin

2014-01-01

Supported eText for students with visual impairments in mathematics has a promising, emerging literature base, although little of the existing research focuses on implementation within a classroom setting. This qualitative study sought to understand the use of supported eText to deliver algebra to students with visual impairments enrolled in algebra mathematics courses. The study also sought to explore supported eText in contrast to students' traditional means of accessing an algebra text. The main results suggest supported eText holds potential in terms of delivering mathematics content; however, more research and more reflection on the field is needed regarding this approach as a sole means of presenting text. Implications for teacher professional development and implementation practices are discussed.

Proof in Algebra: Reasoning beyond Examples

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Otten, Samuel; Herbel-Eisenmann, Beth A.; Males, Lorraine M.

2010-01-01

The purpose of this article is to provide an image of what proof could look like in beginning algebra, a course that nearly every secondary school student encounters. The authors present an actual classroom vignette in which a rich opportunity for student reasoning arose. After analyzing the proof schemes at play, the authors provide a…

The use of applets to improve Indonesian student performance in algebra

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Jupri, A.

2015-01-01

As a core topic in secondary school mathematics, algebra is recognized as one of the most difficult topics, which leads to learning difficulties worldwide. In Indonesia, algebra performance is an important issue. In the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study 2007 (TIMSS), Indonesian

Solving the Unknown with Algebra: Poster/Teaching Guide for Pre-Algebra Students. Expect the Unexpected with Math[R

Science.gov (United States)

Actuarial Foundation, 2013

2013-01-01

"Solving the Unknown with Algebra" is a new math program aligned with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) standards and designed to help students practice pre-algebra skills including using formulas, solving for unknowns, and manipulating equations. Developed by The Actuarial Foundation with Scholastic, this program provides…

Building Students' Reasoning Skills by Promoting Student-Led Discussions in an Algebra II Class

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DeJarnette, Anna F.; González, Gloriana

2013-01-01

Current research and professional organizations call for greater emphasis on reasoning and sense making in algebra (Chazan, 2000; Cuoco, Goldenberg, & Mark, 1996; Harel & Sowder, 2005; National Council of Teachers of Mathematics [NCTM], 2009, 2010). This paper illustrates how students in an Algebra II class had opportunities to develop…

Situating Student Errors: Linguistic-to-Algebra Translation Errors

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Adu-Gyamfi, Kwaku; Bossé, Michael J.; Chandler, Kayla

2015-01-01

While it is well recognized that students are prone to difficulties when performing linguistic-to-algebra translations, the nature of students' difficulties remain an issue of contention. Moreover, the literature indicates that these difficulties are not easily remediated by domain-specific instruction. Some have opined that this is the case…

Undergraduate Mathematics Students' Emotional Experiences in Linear Algebra Courses

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Martínez-Sierra, Gustavo; García-González, María del Socorro

2016-01-01

Little is known about students' emotions in the field of Mathematics Education that go beyond students' emotions in problem solving. To start filling this gap this qualitative research has the aim to identify emotional experiences of undergraduate mathematics students in Linear Algebra courses. In order to obtain data, retrospective focus group…

The Aftermath of Accelerating Algebra: Evidence from District Policy Initiatives

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Clotfelter, Charles T.; Ladd, Helen F.; Vigdor, Jacob L.

2014-01-01

In 2008, the California State Board of Education voted to require all students to enroll in algebra by 8th grade. This policy initiative, yet to be actually implemented, represents the culmination of a decades-long movement toward offering algebra instruction before the traditional high school years. Nationally, the proportion of 8th grade…

Application of Algebra Curriculum-Based Measurements for Decision Making in Middle and High School

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Johnson, Evelyn S.; Galow, Patricia A.; Allenger, Robert

2013-01-01

This article reports the results of a study examining the utility of curriculum-based measurement (CBM) in algebra for predicting performance on a state math assessment and informing instructional placement decisions for students in seventh, eighth, and tenth grades. Students completed six Basic Skills algebra probes across different time…

An Investigation of Selected Variables Related to Student Algebra I Performance in Mississippi

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Scott, Undray

2016-01-01

This research study attempted to determine if specific variables were related to student performance on the Algebra I subject-area test. This study also sought to determine in which of grades 8, 9, or 10 students performed better on the Algebra I Subject Area Test. This study also investigated the different criteria that are used to schedule…

Investigating Students' Modes of Thinking in Linear Algebra: The Case of Linear Independence

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Çelik, Derya

2015-01-01

Linear algebra is one of the most challenging topics to learn and teach in many countries. To facilitate the teaching and learning of linear algebra, priority should be given to epistemologically analyze the concepts that the undergraduate students have difficulty in conceptualizing and to define their ways of reasoning in linear algebra. After…

Race and Teacher Evaluations as Predictors of Algebra Placement

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Faulkner, Valerie N.; Stiff, Lee V.; Marshall, Patricia L.; Nietfeld, John; Crossland, Cathy L.

2014-01-01

This study is a longitudinal look at the different mathematics placement profiles of Black students and White students from late elementary school through 8th grade. Results revealed that Black students had reduced odds of being placed in algebra by the time they entered 8th grade even after controlling for performance in mathematics. An important…

Algebraic geometry

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Lefschetz, Solomon

2005-01-01

An introduction to algebraic geometry and a bridge between its analytical-topological and algebraical aspects, this text for advanced undergraduate students is particularly relevant to those more familiar with analysis than algebra. 1953 edition.

Factors Relating to the Success or Failure of College Algebra Internet Students: A Grounded Theory Study

OpenAIRE

Walker, Christine

2008-01-01

The purpose of this grounded theory study was to discover the factors that contribute to the success or failure of college algebra for students taking college algebra by distance education Internet, and then generate a theory of success or failure of the group of College Algebra Internet students at one Utah college. Qualitative data were collected and analyzed on students’ perceptions and perspectives of a College Algebra Internet course that they took during the spring or summer 2006 semest...

High School Students with Learning Disabilities: Mathematics Instruction, Study Skills, and High Stakes Tests

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Steele, Marcee M.

2010-01-01

This article reviews characteristics of high school students with learning disabilities and presents instructional modifications and study skills to help them succeed in algebra and geometry courses and on high stakes mathematics assessments.

Algebraic theory of numbers

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Samuel, Pierre

2008-01-01

Algebraic number theory introduces students not only to new algebraic notions but also to related concepts: groups, rings, fields, ideals, quotient rings and quotient fields, homomorphisms and isomorphisms, modules, and vector spaces. Author Pierre Samuel notes that students benefit from their studies of algebraic number theory by encountering many concepts fundamental to other branches of mathematics - algebraic geometry, in particular.This book assumes a knowledge of basic algebra but supplements its teachings with brief, clear explanations of integrality, algebraic extensions of fields, Gal

Success after Failure: Academic Effects and Psychological Implications of Early Universal Algebra Policies

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Howard, Keith A.; Scott, Allison; Romero, Martin; Saddler, Derrick

2015-01-01

In this article, the authors use the High School Longitudinal Study 2009 (HSLS:09) national database to analyze the relationships between algebra failure, subsequent performance, motivation, and college readiness. Students who failed eighth-grade Algebra I did not differ significantly in mathematics proficiency from those who passed lower-level…

Factors Related to Problem Solving by College Students in Developmental Algebra.

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Schonberger, Ann K.

A study was conducted to contrast the characteristics of three groups of college students who completed a developmental algebra course at the University of Maine at Orono during 1980-81. On the basis of a two-part final examination, involving a multiple-choice test of algebraic concepts and skills and a free-response test of problem-solving…

2nd EACA International School on Computer Algebra and its Applications

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Gimenez, Philippe; Sáenz-de-Cabezón, Eduardo

2017-01-01

Featuring up-to-date coverage of three topics lying at the intersection of combinatorics and commutative algebra, namely Koszul algebras, primary decompositions and subdivision operations in simplicial complexes, this book has its focus on computations. "Computations and combinatorics in commutative algebra" has been written by experts in both theoretical and computational aspects of these three subjects and is aimed at a broad audience, from experienced researchers who want to have an easy but deep review of the topics covered to postgraduate students who need a quick introduction to the techniques. The computational treatment of the material, including plenty of examples and code, will be useful for a wide range of professionals interested in the connections between commutative algebra and combinatorics.

Excel Spreadsheets for Algebra: Improving Mental Modeling for Problem Solving

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Engerman, Jason; Rusek, Matthew; Clariana, Roy

2014-01-01

This experiment investigates the effectiveness of Excel spreadsheets in a high school algebra class. Students in the experiment group convincingly outperformed the control group on a post lesson assessment. The student responses, teacher observations involving Excel spreadsheet revealed that it operated as a mindtool, which formed the users'…

The Effects of the Elevate Math Summer Program on Math Achievement and Algebra Readiness

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Snipes, Jason; Huang, Chun-Wei; Jaquet, Karina; Finkelstein, Neal

2016-01-01

To raise math success rates in middle school, many schools and districts have implemented summer math programs designed to improve student preparation for algebra content in grade 8. However, little is known about the effectiveness of these programs. While students who participate typically experience learning gains, there is little rigorous…

CARACTERIZAÇÕES DO PENSAMENTO ALGÉBRICO EM TAREFAS REALIZADAS POR ESTUDANTES DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL I. CHARACTERIZATIONS OF ALGEBRAIC THINKING IN TASKS PERFORMED BY STUDENTS OF ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Silva, Daniele Peres da

2012-05-01

Full Text Available Tomando a Early Algebra como área de pesquisa que visa uma abordagem para o ensino e aprendizagem da álgebra inicial, este artigo apresenta uma análise das atitudes, indagações e produções escritas, enfim, o comportamento de crianças em resolução de tarefas. O objetivo foi identificar e analisar características do pensamento algébrico em tarefas aplicadas a estudantes do Ensino Fundamental I. Mais especificamente, buscamos compreender como trinta e cinco estudantes do 5º Ano do Ensino Fundamental I de uma escola pública do município de Apucarana-PR lidam com tarefas que promovem o desenvolvimento do pensamento algébrico. Para organização e interpretação dos dados, empregamos procedimentos à luz da Análise de Conteúdo, sendo esta uma modalidade de pesquisa qualitativa. Por meio das respostas apresentadas e das indagações e afirmações dos estudantes durante a resolução das tarefas, o estudo mostrou que embora as resoluções nem sempre estivessem corretas, estas evidenciam indícios de pensamento algébrico, uma vez que os participantes desse estudo perceberam e tentaram expressar as estruturas aritméticas das situações-problema, assim como, descreveram seus processos de pensamento. Portanto, esses estudantes do Ensino Fundamental I têm condições de lidar e de desenvolver aspectos relacionados ao pensamento algébrico, mesmo não apresentando uma linguagem simbólica algébrica. Taking Early Algebra as a research area that seeks an approach to the teaching and learning of early algebra, this paper presents an analysis of attitudes, questions and written productions that provide clues about the behavior of children in solving tasks. The objective was to identify and analyze characteristics of algebraic thinking in tasks applied to elementary school students. More specifically, we aimed to understand how thirty-five students from the 5th year of elementary school in a public school in the city of Apucarana-PR deal

Urban and Rural High School Students' Perspectives of Productive Peer Culture for Mathematics Learning

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Grant, Melva R.

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine students' perspectives about productive peer culture (PPC) in general and for mathematics learning. The urban and rural high school students in this study have participated for at least one year in either an Algebra Project Cohort Model (APCM) for daily mathematics instruction and/or worked as mathematics…

Those Do What? Connecting Eigenvectors and Eigenvalues to the Rest of Linear Algebra: Using Visual Enhancements to Help Students Connect Eigenvectors to the Rest of Linear Algebra

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Nyman, Melvin A.; Lapp, Douglas A.; St. John, Dennis; Berry, John S.

2010-01-01

This paper discusses student difficulties in grasping concepts from Linear Algebra--in particular, the connection of eigenvalues and eigenvectors to other important topics in linear algebra. Based on our prior observations from student interviews, we propose technology-enhanced instructional approaches that might positively impact student…

Effects of Modified Schema-Based Instruction on Real-World Algebra Problem Solving of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Moderate Intellectual Disability

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Root, Jenny Rose

2016-01-01

The current study evaluated the effects of modified schema-based instruction (SBI) on the algebra problem solving skills of three middle school students with autism spectrum disorder and moderate intellectual disability (ASD/ID). Participants learned to solve two types of group word problems: missing-whole and missing-part. The themes of the word…

Does Early Algebraic Reasoning Differ as a Function of Students’ Difficulty with Calculations versus Word Problems?

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Powell, Sarah R.; Fuchs, Lynn S.

2014-01-01

According to national mathematics standards, algebra instruction should begin at kindergarten and continue through elementary school. Most often, teachers address algebra in the elementary grades with problems related to solving equations or understanding functions. With 789 2nd- grade students, we administered (a) measures of calculations and word problems in the fall and (b) an assessment of pre-algebraic reasoning, with items that assessed solving equations and functions, in the spring. Based on the calculation and word-problem measures, we placed 148 students into 1 of 4 difficulty status categories: typically performing, calculation difficulty, word-problem difficulty, or difficulty with calculations and word problems. Analyses of variance were conducted on the 148 students; path analytic mediation analyses were conducted on the larger sample of 789 students. Across analyses, results corroborated the finding that word-problem difficulty is more strongly associated with difficulty with pre-algebraic reasoning. As an indicator of later algebra difficulty, word-problem difficulty may be a more useful predictor than calculation difficulty, and students with word-problem difficulty may require a different level of algebraic reasoning intervention than students with calculation difficulty. PMID:25309044

Using Example Problems to Improve Student Learning in Algebra: Differentiating between Correct and Incorrect Examples

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Booth, Julie L.; Lange, Karin E.; Koedinger, Kenneth R.; Newton, Kristie J.

2013-01-01

In a series of two "in vivo" experiments, we examine whether correct and incorrect examples with prompts for self-explanation can be effective for improving students' conceptual understanding and procedural skill in Algebra when combined with guided practice. In Experiment 1, students working with the Algebra I Cognitive Tutor were randomly…

Introduction to relation algebras relation algebras

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Givant, Steven

2017-01-01

The first volume of a pair that charts relation algebras from novice to expert level, this text offers a comprehensive grounding for readers new to the topic. Upon completing this introduction, mathematics students may delve into areas of active research by progressing to the second volume, Advanced Topics in Relation Algebras; computer scientists, philosophers, and beyond will be equipped to apply these tools in their own field. The careful presentation establishes first the arithmetic of relation algebras, providing ample motivation and examples, then proceeds primarily on the basis of algebraic constructions: subalgebras, homomorphisms, quotient algebras, and direct products. Each chapter ends with a historical section and a substantial number of exercises. The only formal prerequisite is a background in abstract algebra and some mathematical maturity, though the reader will also benefit from familiarity with Boolean algebra and naïve set theory. The measured pace and outstanding clarity are particularly ...

Pre-Algebra Essentials For Dummies

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Zegarelli, Mark

2010-01-01

Many students worry about starting algebra. Pre-Algebra Essentials For Dummies provides an overview of critical pre-algebra concepts to help new algebra students (and their parents) take the next step without fear. Free of ramp-up material, Pre-Algebra Essentials For Dummies contains content focused on key topics only. It provides discrete explanations of critical concepts taught in a typical pre-algebra course, from fractions, decimals, and percents to scientific notation and simple variable equations. This guide is also a perfect reference for parents who need to review critical pre-algebra

Supporting Students' Understanding of Linear Equations with One Variable Using Algebra Tiles

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Saraswati, Sari; Putri, Ratu Ilma Indra; Somakim

2016-01-01

This research aimed to describe how algebra tiles can support students' understanding of linear equations with one variable. This article is a part of a larger research on learning design of linear equations with one variable using algebra tiles combined with balancing method. Therefore, it will merely discuss one activity focused on how students…

78 FR 24393 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Comment Request; Promoting Student Success in Algebra I...

Science.gov (United States)

2013-04-25

...; Comment Request; Promoting Student Success in Algebra I Project AGENCY: Office of Elementary and Secondary... Success in Algebra I Project. OMB Control Number: 1810-NEW. Type of Review: A new information collection... Algebra I (PSSA) study aims to provide policy-makers and practitioners with a deeper understanding of how...

Competence with Fractions in Fifth or Sixth Grade as a Unique Predictor of Algebraic Thinking?

Science.gov (United States)

Pearn, Catherine; Stephens, Max

2016-01-01

Researchers have argued that there are strong links between primary school students' competence with fraction concepts and operations and their algebraic readiness. This study involving 162 Years 5/6 students in three primary schools examined the strength of that relationship using a test based on familiar fraction tasks and a test of algebraic…

Balancing the Equation: Do Course Variations in Algebra 1 Provide Equal Student Outcomes?

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Kenfield, Danielle M.

2013-01-01

Historically, algebra has served as a gatekeeper that divides students into academic programs with varying opportunities to learn and controls access to higher education and career opportunities. Successful completion of Algebra 1 demonstrates mathematical proficiency and allows access to a sequential and progressive path of advanced study that…

Linear algebraic groups

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Springer, T A

1998-01-01

"[The first] ten chapters...are an efficient, accessible, and self-contained introduction to affine algebraic groups over an algebraically closed field. The author includes exercises and the book is certainly usable by graduate students as a text or for self-study...the author [has a] student-friendly style… [The following] seven chapters... would also be a good introduction to rationality issues for algebraic groups. A number of results from the literature…appear for the first time in a text." –Mathematical Reviews (Review of the Second Edition) "This book is a completely new version of the first edition. The aim of the old book was to present the theory of linear algebraic groups over an algebraically closed field. Reading that book, many people entered the research field of linear algebraic groups. The present book has a wider scope. Its aim is to treat the theory of linear algebraic groups over arbitrary fields. Again, the author keeps the treatment of prerequisites self-contained. The material of t...

The Aftermath of Accelerating Algebra: Evidence from a District Policy Initiative. Working Paper 18161

Science.gov (United States)

Clotfelter, Charles T.; Ladd, Helen F.; Vigdor, Jacob L.

2012-01-01

In 2002/03, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in North Carolina initiated a broad program of accelerating entry into algebra coursework. The proportion of moderately-performing students taking algebra in 8th grade increased from half to 85%, then reverted to baseline levels, in the span of just five years. We use this policy-induced variation to…

Exploring student learning profiles in algebra-based studio physics: A person-centered approach

Science.gov (United States)

Pond, Jarrad W. T.; Chini, Jacquelyn J.

2017-06-01

In this study, we explore the strategic self-regulatory and motivational characteristics of students in studio-mode physics courses at three universities with varying student populations and varying levels of success in their studio-mode courses. We survey students using questions compiled from several existing questionnaires designed to measure students' study strategies, attitudes toward and motivations for learning physics, organization of scientific knowledge, experiences outside the classroom, and demographics. Using a person-centered approach, we utilize cluster analysis methods to group students into learning profiles based on their individual responses to better understand the strategies and motives of algebra-based studio physics students. Previous studies have identified five distinct learning profiles across several student populations using similar methods. We present results from first-semester and second-semester studio-mode introductory physics courses across three universities. We identify these five distinct learning profiles found in previous studies to be present within our population of introductory physics students. In addition, we investigate interactions between these learning profiles and student demographics. We find significant interactions between a student's learning profile and their experience with high school physics, major, gender, grade expectation, and institution. Ultimately, we aim to use this method of analysis to take the characteristics of students into account in the investigation of successful strategies for using studio methods of physics instruction within and across institutions.

Impact of Providing Information to Parents in Texas about the Role of Algebra II in College Admission. REL 2018-290

Science.gov (United States)

Stoker, Ginger; Mellor, Lynn

2018-01-01

This study examines the impact of providing parents with an informational brochure about the role of algebra II in college access on students' grade 11 algebra II completion rates in Texas. One hundred nine schools, covering all 20 Educational Service Center regions in Texas, participated in the study. Parents in the 54 treatment schools were…

Separable algebras

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Ford, Timothy J

2017-01-01

This book presents a comprehensive introduction to the theory of separable algebras over commutative rings. After a thorough introduction to the general theory, the fundamental roles played by separable algebras are explored. For example, Azumaya algebras, the henselization of local rings, and Galois theory are rigorously introduced and treated. Interwoven throughout these applications is the important notion of étale algebras. Essential connections are drawn between the theory of separable algebras and Morita theory, the theory of faithfully flat descent, cohomology, derivations, differentials, reflexive lattices, maximal orders, and class groups. The text is accessible to graduate students who have finished a first course in algebra, and it includes necessary foundational material, useful exercises, and many nontrivial examples.

Analysis of junior high school students' attempt to solve a linear inequality problem

Science.gov (United States)

Taqiyuddin, Muhammad; Sumiaty, Encum; Jupri, Al

2017-08-01

Linear inequality is one of fundamental subjects within junior high school mathematics curricula. Several studies have been conducted to asses students' perform on linear inequality. However, it can hardly be found that linear inequality problems are in the form of "ax + b condition leads to the research questions concerning students' attempt on solving a simple linear inequality problem in this form. In order to do so, the written test was administered to 58 students from two schools in Bandung followed by interviews. The other sources of the data are from teachers' interview and mathematics books used by students. After that, the constant comparative method was used to analyse the data. The result shows that the majority approached the question by doing algebraic operations. Interestingly, most of them did it incorrectly. In contrast, algebraic operations were correctly used by some of them. Moreover, the others performed expected-numbers solution, rewriting the question, translating the inequality into words, and blank answer. Furthermore, we found that there is no one who was conscious of the existence of all-numbers solution. It was found that this condition is reasonably due to how little the learning components concern about why a procedure of solving a linear inequality works and possibilities of linear inequality solution.

Algebra

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Sepanski, Mark R

2010-01-01

Mark Sepanski's Algebra is a readable introduction to the delightful world of modern algebra. Beginning with concrete examples from the study of integers and modular arithmetic, the text steadily familiarizes the reader with greater levels of abstraction as it moves through the study of groups, rings, and fields. The book is equipped with over 750 exercises suitable for many levels of student ability. There are standard problems, as well as challenging exercises, that introduce students to topics not normally covered in a first course. Difficult problems are broken into manageable subproblems

Primary school students’ strategies in early algebra problem solving supported by an online game

NARCIS (Netherlands)

van den Heuvel-Panhuizen, M.H.A.M; Kolovou, A.; Robitzsch, A.

2013-01-01

In this study we investigated the role of a dynamic online game on students’ early algebra problem solving. In total 253 students from grades 4, 5, and 6 (10–12 years old) used the game at home to solve a sequence of early algebra problems consisting of contextual problems addressing covarying

Student Learning of Basis, Span and Linear Independence in Linear Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Stewart, Sepideh; Thomas, Michael O. J.

2010-01-01

One of the earlier, more challenging concepts in linear algebra at university is that of basis. Students are often taught procedurally how to find a basis for a subspace using matrix manipulation, but may struggle with understanding the construct of basis, making further progress harder. We believe one reason for this is because students have…

"Playing the Game" of Story Problems: Coordinating Situation-Based Reasoning with Algebraic Representation

Science.gov (United States)

Walkington, Candace; Sherman, Milan; Petrosino, Anthony

2012-01-01

This study critically examines a key justification used by educational stakeholders for placing mathematics in context--the idea that contextualization provides students with access to mathematical ideas. We present interviews of 24 ninth grade students from a low-performing urban school solving algebra story problems, some of which were…

Science dual enrollment: An examination of high school students' post-secondary aspirations

Science.gov (United States)

Berry, Chelsia

The purpose of this study was to determine if participation in science dual enrollment courses influenced African American high school students' post-secondary aspirations that will lead to college attendance. The investigation examined the relationship between African American students' learning experiences and how their self-efficacy and outcome expectations impact their goal setting. The goal was to determine the impact of the following variables on African American students' plan to pursue a bachelor's or advanced degree: (a) STEM exposure, (b) Algebra 1 achievement, (c) level of science class, and (d) receiving science college credit for dual enrollment course. The social cognitive career theory framed this body of research to explore how career and academic interests mature, are developed, and are translated into action. Science dual enrollment participation is a strategy for addressing the lack of African American presence in the STEM fields. The causal comparative ex post facto research design was used in this quantitative study. The researcher performed the Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric analysis of variance and Pearson's chi-square tests to analyze secondary data from the High School Longitudinal Study first follow-up student questionnaire. The results indicate that STEM exposure and early success in Algebra 1 have a statistically significant impact on African American students' ambition to pursue a bachelor's or advanced degree. According to the Pearson's chi-square and independent sample Kruskal-Wallis analyses, level of students' science class and receiving college credit for dual enrollment do not significantly influence African American students' postsecondary aspirations.

The Struggle to Pass Algebra: Online vs. Face-to-Face Credit Recovery for At-Risk Urban Students

Science.gov (United States)

Heppen, Jessica B.; Sorensen, Nicholas; Allensworth, Elaine; Walters, Kirk; Rickles, Jordan; Taylor, Suzanne Stachel; Michelman, Valerie

2017-01-01

Students who fail algebra are significantly less likely to graduate on time, and algebra failure rates are consistently high in urban districts. Identifying effective credit recovery strategies is critical for getting students back on track. Online courses are now widely used for credit recovery, yet there is no rigorous evidence about the…

Mathematics Achievement with Digital Game-Based Learning in High School Algebra 1 Classes

Science.gov (United States)

Ferguson, Terri Lynn Kurley

2014-01-01

This study examined the impact of digital game-based learning (DGBL) on mathematics achievement in a rural high school setting in North Carolina. A causal comparative research design was used in this study to collect data to determine the effectiveness of DGBL in high school Algebra 1 classes. Data were collected from the North Carolina…

Commutative algebra with a view toward algebraic geometry

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Eisenbud, David

1995-01-01

Commutative Algebra is best understood with knowledge of the geometric ideas that have played a great role in its formation, in short, with a view towards algebraic geometry. The author presents a comprehensive view of commutative algebra, from basics, such as localization and primary decomposition, through dimension theory, differentials, homological methods, free resolutions and duality, emphasizing the origins of the ideas and their connections with other parts of mathematics. Many exercises illustrate and sharpen the theory and extended exercises give the reader an active part in complementing the material presented in the text. One novel feature is a chapter devoted to a quick but thorough treatment of Grobner basis theory and the constructive methods in commutative algebra and algebraic geometry that flow from it. Applications of the theory and even suggestions for computer algebra projects are included. This book will appeal to readers from beginners to advanced students of commutative algebra or algeb...

Expert Strategies in Solving Algebraic Structure Sense Problems: The Case of Quadratic Equations

Science.gov (United States)

Jupri, Al; Sispiyati, R.

2017-02-01

Structure sense, an intuitive ability towards symbolic expressions, including skills to interpret, to manipulate, and to perceive symbols in different roles, is considered as a key success in learning algebra. In this article, we report results of three phases of a case study on solving algebraic structure sense problems aiming at testing the appropriateness of algebraic structure sense tasks and at investigating expert strategies dealing with the tasks. First, we developed three tasks on quadratic equations based on the characteristics of structure sense for high school algebra. Next, we validated the tasks to seven experts. In the validation process, we requested these experts to solve each task using two different strategies. Finally, we analyzing expert solution strategies in the light of structure sense characteristics. We found that even if eventual expert strategies are in line with the characteristics of structure sense; some of their initial solution strategies used standard procedures which might pay less attention to algebraic structures. This finding suggests that experts have reconsidered their procedural work and have provided more efficient solution strategies. For further investigation, we consider to test the tasks to high school algebra students and to see whether they produce similar results as experts.

Exploring Students' Understanding of Ordinary Differential Equations Using Computer Algebraic System (CAS)

Science.gov (United States)

Maat, Siti Mistima; Zakaria, Effandi

2011-01-01

Ordinary differential equations (ODEs) are one of the important topics in engineering mathematics that lead to the understanding of technical concepts among students. This study was conducted to explore the students' understanding of ODEs when they solve ODE questions using a traditional method as well as a computer algebraic system, particularly…

The impact of a technology-rich intervention on grade 7 students' skills in initial algebra

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Jupri, Al; Drijvers, Paul; van den Heuvel - Panhuizen, Marja

2014-01-01

This paper describes a classroom experiment on the use of digital technology in initial algebra. Indonesian grade seven students of 12-13 year-old took part in a four session teaching sequence on beginning algebra enriched with digital technology, and in particular applets embedded in the Digital

Linking geometry and algebra in the school mathematics curriculum

OpenAIRE

Jones, Keith

2010-01-01

This chapter focuses on the linking of geometry and algebra in the teaching and learning of mathematics - and how, through such linking, the mathematics curriculum might be strengthened. Through reviewing the case of the school mathematics curriculum in England, together with examples of how the power of geometry can bring contemporary mathematics to life in the classroom, the chapter argues for greater concinnity in the mathematics curriculum, especially in terms of the harmonious/purposeful...

Linear algebra

CERN Document Server

Edwards, Harold M

1995-01-01

In his new undergraduate textbook, Harold M Edwards proposes a radically new and thoroughly algorithmic approach to linear algebra Originally inspired by the constructive philosophy of mathematics championed in the 19th century by Leopold Kronecker, the approach is well suited to students in the computer-dominated late 20th century Each proof is an algorithm described in English that can be translated into the computer language the class is using and put to work solving problems and generating new examples, making the study of linear algebra a truly interactive experience Designed for a one-semester course, this text adopts an algorithmic approach to linear algebra giving the student many examples to work through and copious exercises to test their skills and extend their knowledge of the subject Students at all levels will find much interactive instruction in this text while teachers will find stimulating examples and methods of approach to the subject

Teachers' Understanding of Algebraic Generalization

Science.gov (United States)

Hawthorne, Casey Wayne

Generalization has been identified as a cornerstone of algebraic thinking (e.g., Lee, 1996; Sfard, 1995) and is at the center of a rich conceptualization of K-8 algebra (Kaput, 2008; Smith, 2003). Moreover, mathematics teachers are being encouraged to use figural-pattern generalizing tasks as a basis of student-centered instruction, whereby teachers respond to and build upon the ideas that arise from students' explorations of these activities. Although more and more teachers are engaging their students in such generalizing tasks, little is known about teachers' understanding of generalization and their understanding of students' mathematical thinking in this domain. In this work, I addressed this gap, exploring the understanding of algebraic generalization of 4 exemplary 8th-grade teachers from multiple perspectives. A significant feature of this investigation is an examination of teachers' understanding of the generalization process, including the use of algebraic symbols. The research consisted of two phases. Phase I was an examination of the teachers' understandings of the underlying quantities and quantitative relationships represented by algebraic notation. In Phase II, I observed the instruction of 2 of these teachers. Using the lens of professional noticing of students' mathematical thinking, I explored the teachers' enacted knowledge of algebraic generalization, characterizing how it supported them to effectively respond to the needs and queries of their students. Results indicated that teachers predominantly see these figural patterns as enrichment activities, disconnected from course content. Furthermore, in my analysis, I identified conceptual difficulties teachers experienced when solving generalization tasks, in particular, connecting multiple symbolic representations with the quantities in the figures. Moreover, while the teachers strived to overcome the challenges of connecting different representations, they invoked both productive and unproductive

Learning Algebra from Worked Examples

Science.gov (United States)

Lange, Karin E.; Booth, Julie L.; Newton, Kristie J.

2014-01-01

For students to be successful in algebra, they must have a truly conceptual understanding of key algebraic features as well as the procedural skills to complete a problem. One strategy to correct students' misconceptions combines the use of worked example problems in the classroom with student self-explanation. "Self-explanation" is the…

A course in BE-algebras

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Mukkamala, Sambasiva Rao

2018-01-01

This book presents a unified course in BE-algebras with a comprehensive introduction, general theoretical basis and several examples. It introduces the general theoretical basis of BE-algebras, adopting a credible style to offer students a conceptual understanding of the subject. BE-algebras are important tools for certain investigations in algebraic logic, because they can be considered as fragments of any propositional logic containing a logical connective implication and the constant "1", which is considered as the logical value “true”.  Primarily aimed at graduate and postgraduate students of mathematics, it also helps researchers and mathematicians to build a strong foundation in applied abstract algebra. Presenting insights into some of the abstract thinking that constitutes modern abstract algebra, it provides a transition from elementary topics to advanced topics in BE-algebras. With abundant examples and exercises arranged after each section, it offers readers a comprehensive, easy-to-follow int...

An Intensification Approach to Double-Block Algebra: A Pilot Implementation of Intensified Algebra in A Large Urban School District

Science.gov (United States)

Tidd, Simon T.; Stoelinga, Timothy M.; Bush-Richards, Angela M.; De Sena, Donna L.; Dwyer, Theodore J.

2018-01-01

Double-block instruction has become a popular strategy for supporting struggling mathematics students in algebra I. Despite its widespread adoption, little consistent evidence supports the attributes of a successful double-block design or the effectiveness of this instructional strategy. In this study, the authors examine a pilot implementation of…

Boolean algebra essentials

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Solomon, Alan D

2012-01-01

REA's Essentials provide quick and easy access to critical information in a variety of different fields, ranging from the most basic to the most advanced. As its name implies, these concise, comprehensive study guides summarize the essentials of the field covered. Essentials are helpful when preparing for exams, doing homework and will remain a lasting reference source for students, teachers, and professionals. Boolean Algebra includes set theory, sentential calculus, fundamental ideas of Boolean algebras, lattices, rings and Boolean algebras, the structure of a Boolean algebra, and Boolean

Matrices and linear algebra

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Schneider, Hans

1989-01-01

Linear algebra is one of the central disciplines in mathematics. A student of pure mathematics must know linear algebra if he is to continue with modern algebra or functional analysis. Much of the mathematics now taught to engineers and physicists requires it.This well-known and highly regarded text makes the subject accessible to undergraduates with little mathematical experience. Written mainly for students in physics, engineering, economics, and other fields outside mathematics, the book gives the theory of matrices and applications to systems of linear equations, as well as many related t

Algebraic monoids, group embeddings, and algebraic combinatorics

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Li, Zhenheng; Steinberg, Benjamin; Wang, Qiang

2014-01-01

This book contains a collection of fifteen articles and is dedicated to the sixtieth birthdays of Lex Renner and Mohan Putcha, the pioneers of the field of algebraic monoids.   Topics presented include:   v  structure and representation theory of reductive algebraic monoids v  monoid schemes and applications of monoids v  monoids related to Lie theory v  equivariant embeddings of algebraic groups v  constructions and properties of monoids from algebraic combinatorics v  endomorphism monoids induced from vector bundles v  Hodge–Newton decompositions of reductive monoids   A portion of these articles are designed to serve as a self-contained introduction to these topics, while the remaining contributions are research articles containing previously unpublished results, which are sure to become very influential for future work. Among these, for example, the important recent work of Michel Brion and Lex Renner showing that the algebraic semigroups are strongly π-regular.   Graduate students as well a...

Subspace in Linear Algebra: Investigating Students' Concept Images and Interactions with the Formal Definition

Science.gov (United States)

Wawro, Megan; Sweeney, George F.; Rabin, Jeffrey M.

2011-01-01

This paper reports on a study investigating students' ways of conceptualizing key ideas in linear algebra, with the particular results presented here focusing on student interactions with the notion of subspace. In interviews conducted with eight undergraduates, we found students' initial descriptions of subspace often varied substantially from…

Leavitt path algebras

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Abrams, Gene; Siles Molina, Mercedes

2017-01-01

This book offers a comprehensive introduction by three of the leading experts in the field, collecting fundamental results and open problems in a single volume. Since Leavitt path algebras were first defined in 2005, interest in these algebras has grown substantially, with ring theorists as well as researchers working in graph C*-algebras, group theory and symbolic dynamics attracted to the topic. Providing a historical perspective on the subject, the authors review existing arguments, establish new results, and outline the major themes and ring-theoretic concepts, such as the ideal structure, Z-grading and the close link between Leavitt path algebras and graph C*-algebras. The book also presents key lines of current research, including the Algebraic Kirchberg Phillips Question, various additional classification questions, and connections to noncommutative algebraic geometry. Leavitt Path Algebras will appeal to graduate students and researchers working in the field and related areas, such as C*-algebras and...

Computer-Aided College Algebra: Learning Components that Students Find Beneficial

Science.gov (United States)

Aichele, Douglas B.; Francisco, Cynthia; Utley, Juliana; Wescoatt, Benjamin

2011-01-01

A mixed-method study was conducted during the Fall 2008 semester to better understand the experiences of students participating in computer-aided instruction of College Algebra using the software MyMathLab. The learning environment included a computer learning system for the majority of the instruction, a support system via focus groups (weekly…

Linear algebra

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Stoll, R R

1968-01-01

Linear Algebra is intended to be used as a text for a one-semester course in linear algebra at the undergraduate level. The treatment of the subject will be both useful to students of mathematics and those interested primarily in applications of the theory. The major prerequisite for mastering the material is the readiness of the student to reason abstractly. Specifically, this calls for an understanding of the fact that axioms are assumptions and that theorems are logical consequences of one or more axioms. Familiarity with calculus and linear differential equations is required for understand

Abstract algebra

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Garrett, Paul B

2007-01-01

Designed for an advanced undergraduate- or graduate-level course, Abstract Algebra provides an example-oriented, less heavily symbolic approach to abstract algebra. The text emphasizes specifics such as basic number theory, polynomials, finite fields, as well as linear and multilinear algebra. This classroom-tested, how-to manual takes a more narrative approach than the stiff formalism of many other textbooks, presenting coherent storylines to convey crucial ideas in a student-friendly, accessible manner. An unusual feature of the text is the systematic characterization of objects by universal

A Regression Analysis of South Carolina Algebra I End-of-Course Exam Scores by Schedule Type

Science.gov (United States)

Smith, Dawn M.

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between scheduling and first-year-high-school students' exam scores on the South Carolina Algebra I End-of-Course (EOC) assessment. The study compared existing empirical data from two southeastern high schools from the same school district using 4 X 4 block schedules from 2011-2014 and…

Teaching Quantitative Reasoning: A Better Context for Algebra

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Eric Gaze

2014-01-01

Full Text Available This editorial questions the preeminence of algebra in our mathematics curriculum. The GATC (Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus sequence abandons the fundamental middle school math topics necessary for quantitative literacy, while the standard super-abundance of algebra taught in the abstract fosters math phobia and supports a culturally acceptable stance that math is not relevant to everyday life. Although GATC is seen as a pipeline to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, it is a mistake to think that the objective of producing quantitatively literate citizens is at odds with creating more scientists and engineers. The goal must be to create a curriculum that addresses the quantitative reasoning needs of all students, providing meaningful engagement in mathematics that will simultaneously develop quantitative literacy and spark an interest in STEM fields. In my view, such a curriculum could be based on a foundation of proportional reasoning leading to higher-order quantitative reasoning via modeling (including algebraic reasoning and problem solving and statistical literacy (through the exploration and study of data.

Meanings Given to Algebraic Symbolism in Problem-Posing

Science.gov (United States)

Cañadas, María C.; Molina, Marta; del Río, Aurora

2018-01-01

Some errors in the learning of algebra suggest that students might have difficulties giving meaning to algebraic symbolism. In this paper, we use problem posing to analyze the students' capacity to assign meaning to algebraic symbolism and the difficulties that students encounter in this process, depending on the characteristics of the algebraic…

Rudiments of algebraic geometry

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Jenner, WE

2017-01-01

Aimed at advanced undergraduate students of mathematics, this concise text covers the basics of algebraic geometry. Topics include affine spaces, projective spaces, rational curves, algebraic sets with group structure, more. 1963 edition.

Algebra for Gifted Third Graders.

Science.gov (United States)

Borenson, Henry

1987-01-01

Elementary school children who are exposed to a concrete, hands-on experience in algebraic linear equations will more readily develop a positive mind-set and expectation for success in later formal, algebraic studies. (CB)

Predicting High School Completion Using Student Performance in High School Algebra: A Mixed Methods Research Study

Science.gov (United States)

Chiado, Wendy S.

2012-01-01

Too many of our nation's youth have failed to complete high school. Determining why so many of our nation's students fail to graduate is a complex, multi-faceted problem and beyond the scope of any one study. The study presented herein utilized a thirteen-step mixed methods model developed by Leech and Onwuegbuzie (2007) to demonstrate within a…

The Analysis of the Grade of the Students' Understanding in "Linear Algebra" in National College of Technology

OpenAIRE

中沢, 喜昌

1989-01-01

We gave linear algebra lessons to the fifth grade students as an elective subject and analyzed that to what extent students understood the linear algebra, judging from the result of questionaires and tests. It showed that they are good at the problems accompanied by calculations such as inverse matrix, simultaneous linear equation, and proper value problem and that, on the contrary, it is difficult to understand the abstract notion like linear space and linear map.

Fractions as a Foundation for Algebra within a Sample of Prospective Teachers

Science.gov (United States)

Zientek, Linda Reichwein; Younes, Rayya; Nimon, Kim; Mittag, Kathleen Cage; Taylor, Sharon

2013-01-01

Improving the mathematical skills of the next generation of students will require that elementary and middle school teachers are competent and confident in their abilities to perform fraction operations and to solve algebra equations The present study was conducted to (a) quantify relationships between prospective teachers' abilities to perform…

Upper Primary School Teachers' Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching Functional Thinking in Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Wilkie, Karina J.

2014-01-01

This article is based on a project that investigated teachers' knowledge in teaching an important aspect of algebra in the middle years of schooling--functions, relations and joint variation. As part of the project, 105 upper primary teachers were surveyed during their participation in Contemporary Teaching and Learning of Mathematics, a research…

Linear algebra

CERN Document Server

Liesen, Jörg

2015-01-01

This self-contained textbook takes a matrix-oriented approach to linear algebra and presents a complete theory, including all details and proofs, culminating in the Jordan canonical form and its proof. Throughout the development, the applicability of the results is highlighted. Additionally, the book presents special topics from applied linear algebra including matrix functions, the singular value decomposition, the Kronecker product and linear matrix equations. The matrix-oriented approach to linear algebra leads to a better intuition and a deeper understanding of the abstract concepts, and therefore simplifies their use in real world applications. Some of these applications are presented in detailed examples. In several ‘MATLAB-Minutes’ students can comprehend the concepts and results using computational experiments. Necessary basics for the use of MATLAB are presented in a short introduction. Students can also actively work with the material and practice their mathematical skills in more than 300 exerc...

Gender differences in algebraic thinking ability to solve mathematics problems

Science.gov (United States)

Kusumaningsih, W.; Darhim; Herman, T.; Turmudi

2018-05-01

This study aimed to conduct a gender study on students' algebraic thinking ability in solving a mathematics problem, polyhedron concept, for grade VIII. This research used a qualitative method. The data was collected using: test and interview methods. The subjects in this study were eight male and female students with different level of abilities. It was found that the algebraic thinking skills of male students reached high group of five categories. They were superior in terms of reasoning and quick understanding in solving problems. Algebraic thinking ability of high-achieving group of female students also met five categories of algebraic thinking indicators. They were more diligent, tenacious and thorough in solving problems. Algebraic thinking ability of male students in medium category only satisfied three categories of algebraic thinking indicators. They were sufficient in terms of reasoning and understanding in solving problems. Algebraic thinking ability group of female students in medium group also satisfied three categories of algebraic thinking indicators. They were fairly diligent, tenacious and meticulous on working on the problems.

Early predictors of high school mathematics achievement.

Science.gov (United States)

Siegler, Robert S; Duncan, Greg J; Davis-Kean, Pamela E; Duckworth, Kathryn; Claessens, Amy; Engel, Mimi; Susperreguy, Maria Ines; Chen, Meichu

2012-07-01

Identifying the types of mathematics content knowledge that are most predictive of students' long-term learning is essential for improving both theories of mathematical development and mathematics education. To identify these types of knowledge, we examined long-term predictors of high school students' knowledge of algebra and overall mathematics achievement. Analyses of large, nationally representative, longitudinal data sets from the United States and the United Kingdom revealed that elementary school students' knowledge of fractions and of division uniquely predicts those students' knowledge of algebra and overall mathematics achievement in high school, 5 or 6 years later, even after statistically controlling for other types of mathematical knowledge, general intellectual ability, working memory, and family income and education. Implications of these findings for understanding and improving mathematics learning are discussed.

Learning algebra on screen and on paper: The effect of using a digital tool on students' understanding

Science.gov (United States)

Jupri, Al; Drijvers, Paul; van den Heuvel-Panhuizen, Marja

2016-02-01

The use of digital tools in algebra education is expected to not only contribute to master skill, but also to acquire conceptual understanding. The question is how digital tools affect students" thinking and understanding. This paper presents an analysis of data of one group of three grade seventh students (12-13 year-old) on the use of a digital tool for algebra, the Cover-up applet for solving equations in particular. This case study was part of a larger teaching experiment on initial algebra enriched with digital technology which aimed to improve students" conceptual understanding and skills in solving equations in one variable. The qualitative analysis of a video observation, digital and written work showed that the use of the applet affects student thinking in terms of strategies used by students while dealing with the equations. We conclude that the effects of the use of the digital tool can be traced from student problem solving strategies on paper-and-pencil environment which are similar to strategies while working with the digital tool. In future research, we recommend to use specific theoretical lenses, such as the theory of instrumental genesis and the onto-semiotic approach, to reveal more explicit relationships between students" conceptual understanding and the use of a digital tool.

ANALYZING ALGEBRAIC THINKING USING “GUESS MY NUMBER” PROBLEMS

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Estella De Los Santos

2012-01-01

Full Text Available The purpose of this study was to assess student knowledge of numeric, visual and algebraic representations. A definite gap between arithmetic and algebra has been documented in the research. The researchers’ goal was to identify a link between the two. Using four “Guess My Number problems, seventh and tenth grade students were asked to write numeric, visual, and algebraic representations. Seventh-grade students had significantly higher scores than tenth-grade students on visual representation responses. There were no significant differences between the seventh and tenth grade students’ responses on the numeric and algebraic representation. The researchers believed that the semi-concrete and visual models, such as used in this study, may provide the link between numeric and algebraic concepts for many students.

Algebra: A Challenge at the Crossroads of Policy and Practice

Science.gov (United States)

Stein, Mary Kay; Kaufman, Julia Heath; Sherman, Milan; Hillen, Amy F.

2011-01-01

The authors review what is known about early and universal algebra, including who is getting access to algebra and student outcomes associated with algebra course taking in general and specifically with universal algebra policies. The findings indicate that increasing numbers of students, some of whom are underprepared, are taking algebra earlier.…

Algebraic Description of Motion

Science.gov (United States)

Davidon, William C.

1974-01-01

An algebraic definition of time differentiation is presented and used to relate independent measurements of position and velocity. With this, students can grasp certain essential physical, geometric, and algebraic properties of motion and differentiation before undertaking the study of limits. (Author)

Algebra II workbook for dummies

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Sterling, Mary Jane

2014-01-01

To succeed in Algebra II, start practicing now Algebra II builds on your Algebra I skills to prepare you for trigonometry, calculus, and a of myriad STEM topics. Working through practice problems helps students better ingest and retain lesson content, creating a solid foundation to build on for future success. Algebra II Workbook For Dummies, 2nd Edition helps you learn Algebra II by doing Algebra II. Author and math professor Mary Jane Sterling walks you through the entire course, showing you how to approach and solve the problems you encounter in class. You'll begin by refreshing your Algebr

Studies in Mathematics, Volume X. Applied Mathematics in the High School.

Science.gov (United States)

Schiffer, Max M.

This publication contains a sequence of lectures given to high school mathematics teachers by the author. Applications of mathematics emphasized are elementary algebra, geometry, and matrix algebra. Included are: (1) an introduction concerning teaching applications of mathematics; (2) Chapter 1: Mechanics for the High School Student; (3) Chapter…

Relational Algebra and SQL: Better Together

Science.gov (United States)

McMaster, Kirby; Sambasivam, Samuel; Hadfield, Steven; Wolthuis, Stuart

2013-01-01

In this paper, we describe how database instructors can teach Relational Algebra and Structured Query Language together through programming. Students write query programs consisting of sequences of Relational Algebra operations vs. Structured Query Language SELECT statements. The query programs can then be run interactively, allowing students to…

Basic notions of algebra

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Shafarevich, Igor Rostislavovich

2005-01-01

This book is wholeheartedly recommended to every student or user of mathematics. Although the author modestly describes his book as 'merely an attempt to talk about' algebra, he succeeds in writing an extremely original and highly informative essay on algebra and its place in modern mathematics and science. From the fields, commutative rings and groups studied in every university math course, through Lie groups and algebras to cohomology and category theory, the author shows how the origins of each algebraic concept can be related to attempts to model phenomena in physics or in other branches

Assessing Elementary Algebra with STACK

Science.gov (United States)

Sangwin, Christopher J.

2007-01-01

This paper concerns computer aided assessment (CAA) of mathematics in which a computer algebra system (CAS) is used to help assess students' responses to elementary algebra questions. Using a methodology of documentary analysis, we examine what is taught in elementary algebra. The STACK CAA system, http://www.stack.bham.ac.uk/, which uses the CAS…

From rational numbers to algebra: separable contributions of decimal magnitude and relational understanding of fractions.

Science.gov (United States)

DeWolf, Melissa; Bassok, Miriam; Holyoak, Keith J

2015-05-01

To understand the development of mathematical cognition and to improve instructional practices, it is critical to identify early predictors of difficulty in learning complex mathematical topics such as algebra. Recent work has shown that performance with fractions on a number line estimation task predicts algebra performance, whereas performance with whole numbers on similar estimation tasks does not. We sought to distinguish more specific precursors to algebra by measuring multiple aspects of knowledge about rational numbers. Because fractions are the first numbers that are relational expressions to which students are exposed, we investigated how understanding the relational bipartite format (a/b) of fractions might connect to later algebra performance. We presented middle school students with a battery of tests designed to measure relational understanding of fractions, procedural knowledge of fractions, and placement of fractions, decimals, and whole numbers onto number lines as well as algebra performance. Multiple regression analyses revealed that the best predictors of algebra performance were measures of relational fraction knowledge and ability to place decimals (not fractions or whole numbers) onto number lines. These findings suggest that at least two specific components of knowledge about rational numbers--relational understanding (best captured by fractions) and grasp of unidimensional magnitude (best captured by decimals)--can be linked to early success with algebraic expressions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Development of Children's Algebraic Thinking: The Impact of a Comprehensive Early Algebra Intervention in Third Grade

Science.gov (United States)

Blanton, Maria; Stephens, Ana; Knuth, Eric; Gardiner, Angela Murphy; Isler, Isil; Kim, Jee-Seon

2015-01-01

This article reports results from a study investigating the impact of a sustained, comprehensive early algebra intervention in third grade. Participants included 106 students; 39 received the early algebra intervention, and 67 received their district's regularly planned mathematics instruction. We share and discuss students' responses to a written…

AT-algebras and extensions of AT-algebras

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Home; Journals; Proceedings – Mathematical Sciences; Volume 120; Issue 2. A T -Algebras and Extensions of A T ... School of Science, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210014, People's Republic of China; Department of Mathematics, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, People's Republic of China ...

Linear algebra done right

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Axler, Sheldon

2015-01-01

This best-selling textbook for a second course in linear algebra is aimed at undergrad math majors and graduate students. The novel approach taken here banishes determinants to the end of the book. The text focuses on the central goal of linear algebra: understanding the structure of linear operators on finite-dimensional vector spaces. The author has taken unusual care to motivate concepts and to simplify proofs. A variety of interesting exercises in each chapter helps students understand and manipulate the objects of linear algebra. The third edition contains major improvements and revisions throughout the book. More than 300 new exercises have been added since the previous edition. Many new examples have been added to illustrate the key ideas of linear algebra. New topics covered in the book include product spaces, quotient spaces, and dual spaces. Beautiful new formatting creates pages with an unusually pleasant appearance in both print and electronic versions. No prerequisites are assumed other than the ...

The link between middle school mathematics course placement and achievement.

Science.gov (United States)

Domina, Thurston

2014-01-01

The proportion of eighth graders in United States public schools enrolled in algebra or a more advanced mathematics course doubled between 1990 and 2011. This article uses Early Childhood Longitudinal Study's Kindergarten Cohort data to consider the selection process into advanced middle school mathematics courses and estimate the effects of advanced courses on students' mathematics achievement (n = 6,425; mean age at eighth grade = 13.7). Eighth-grade algebra and geometry course placements are academically selective, but considerable between-school variation exists in students' odds of taking these advanced courses. While analyses indicate that advanced middle school mathematics courses boost student achievement, these effects are most pronounced in content areas closely related to class content and may be contingent on student academic readiness. © 2014 The Author. Child Development © 2014 Society for Research in Child Development, Inc.

Constraint-Referenced Analytics of Algebra Learning

Science.gov (United States)

Sutherland, Scot M.; White, Tobin F.

2016-01-01

The development of the constraint-referenced analytics tool for monitoring algebra learning activities presented here came from the desire to firstly, take a more quantitative look at student responses in collaborative algebra activities, and secondly, to situate those activities in a more traditional introductory algebra setting focusing on…

Influence of gender, single-sex and co-educational schooling on students' enjoyment and achievement in mathematics

Science.gov (United States)

Prendergast, Mark; O'Donoghue, John

2014-11-01

This research investigates the influence that gender, single-sex and co-educational schooling can have on students' mathematics education in second-level Irish classrooms. Although gender differences in mathematics education have been the subject of research for many years, recent results from PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) show that there are still marked differences between the achievement and attitude of male and female students in Irish mathematics classrooms. This paper examines the influence of gender in more detail and also investigates the impact of single-sex or co-educational schooling. This is a follow on study which further analyses data collected by the authors when they designed a pedagogical framework and used this to develop, implement and evaluate a teaching intervention in four second-level Irish schools. The aim of this pedagogical framework was to promote student interest in the topic of algebra through effective teaching of the domain. This paper further analyses the quantitative data collected and investigates whether there were differences in students' enjoyment and achievement scores based on their gender and whether they attended single-sex or co-educational schools.

Teacher Actions to Facilitate Early Algebraic Reasoning

Science.gov (United States)

Hunter, Jodie

2015-01-01

In recent years there has been an increased emphasis on integrating the teaching of arithmetic and algebra in primary school classrooms. This requires teachers to develop links between arithmetic and algebra and use pedagogical actions that facilitate algebraic reasoning. Drawing on findings from a classroom-based study, this paper provides an…

Gradings on simple Lie algebras

CERN Document Server

Elduque, Alberto

2013-01-01

Gradings are ubiquitous in the theory of Lie algebras, from the root space decomposition of a complex semisimple Lie algebra relative to a Cartan subalgebra to the beautiful Dempwolff decomposition of E_8 as a direct sum of thirty-one Cartan subalgebras. This monograph is a self-contained exposition of the classification of gradings by arbitrary groups on classical simple Lie algebras over algebraically closed fields of characteristic not equal to 2 as well as on some nonclassical simple Lie algebras in positive characteristic. Other important algebras also enter the stage: matrix algebras, the octonions, and the Albert algebra. Most of the presented results are recent and have not yet appeared in book form. This work can be used as a textbook for graduate students or as a reference for researchers in Lie theory and neighboring areas.

Grade 11 Students' Interconnected Use of Conceptual Knowledge, Procedural Skills, and Strategic Competence in Algebra: A Mixed Method Study of Error Analysis

Science.gov (United States)

Egodawatte, Gunawardena; Stoilescu, Dorian

2015-01-01

The purpose of this mixed-method study was to investigate grade 11 university/college stream mathematics students' difficulties in applying conceptual knowledge, procedural skills, strategic competence, and algebraic thinking in solving routine (instructional) algebraic problems. A standardized algebra test was administered to thirty randomly…

Case Studies Listening to Students Using Kinesthetic Movement While Learning to Graph Linear Functions

Science.gov (United States)

Novak, Melissa A.

2017-01-01

The purpose of this qualitative practitioner research study was to describe middle school algebra students' experiences of learning linear functions through kinesthetic movement. Participants were comprised of 8th grade algebra students. Practitioner research was used because I wanted to improve my teaching so students will have more success in…

Contemporary developments in algebraic K-theory

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Karoubi, M.; Kuku, A.O.; Pedrini, C.

2003-01-01

The School and Conference on Algebraic K-theory which took place at ICTP July 8-26, 2002 was a follow-up to the earlier one in 1997, and like its predecessor, the 2002 meeting endeavoured to emphasise the multidisciplinary aspects of the subject. However, one special feature of the 2002 School and Conference is that the whole activity was dedicated to H. Bass, one of the founders of Algebraic K-theory, on the occasion of his seventieth birthday. The School during the first two weeks, July 8 to 19 was devoted to expository lectures meant to explore and highlight connections between K-theory and several other areas of mathematics - Algebraic Topology, Number theory, Algebraic Geometry, Representation theory, and Non-commutative Geometry. This volume, constituting the Proceedings of the School, is dedicated to H. Bass. The Proceedings of the Conference during the last week July 22 - 26, which will appear in Special issues of K-theory, is also dedicated to H. Bass. The opening contribution by M. Karoubi to this volume consists of a comprehensive survey of developments in K-theory in the last forty-five years, and covers a very broad spectrum of the subject, including Topological K-theory, Atiyah-Singer index theorem, K-theory of Banach algebras, Higher Algebraic K-theory, Cyclic Homology etc. J. Berrick's contribution on 'Algebraic K-theory and Algebraic Topology' treats the various topological constructions of Algebraic K-theory together with the underlying homotopy theory. Topics covered include the plus construction together with its various ramifications and applications, Topological Hochschild and Cyclic Homology as well as K-theory of the ring of integers. The contributions by M. Kolster titled 'K-theory and Arithmetics' includes such topics as values of zeta functions and relations to K-theory, K-theory of integers in number fields and associated conjectures, Etale cohomology, Iwasawa theory etc. A.O. Kuku's contributions on 'K-theory and Representation theory

Contemporary developments in algebraic K-theory

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Karoubi, M [Univ. Paris (France); Kuku, A O [Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics, Trieste (Italy); Pedrini, C [Univ. Genova (Italy)

2003-09-15

The School and Conference on Algebraic K-theory which took place at ICTP July 8-26, 2002 was a follow-up to the earlier one in 1997, and like its predecessor, the 2002 meeting endeavoured to emphasise the multidisciplinary aspects of the subject. However, one special feature of the 2002 School and Conference is that the whole activity was dedicated to H. Bass, one of the founders of Algebraic K-theory, on the occasion of his seventieth birthday. The School during the first two weeks, July 8 to 19 was devoted to expository lectures meant to explore and highlight connections between K-theory and several other areas of mathematics - Algebraic Topology, Number theory, Algebraic Geometry, Representation theory, and Non-commutative Geometry. This volume, constituting the Proceedings of the School, is dedicated to H. Bass. The Proceedings of the Conference during the last week July 22 - 26, which will appear in Special issues of K-theory, is also dedicated to H. Bass. The opening contribution by M. Karoubi to this volume consists of a comprehensive survey of developments in K-theory in the last forty-five years, and covers a very broad spectrum of the subject, including Topological K-theory, Atiyah-Singer index theorem, K-theory of Banach algebras, Higher Algebraic K-theory, Cyclic Homology etc. J. Berrick's contribution on 'Algebraic K-theory and Algebraic Topology' treats the various topological constructions of Algebraic K-theory together with the underlying homotopy theory. Topics covered include the plus construction together with its various ramifications and applications, Topological Hochschild and Cyclic Homology as well as K-theory of the ring of integers. The contributions by M. Kolster titled 'K-theory and Arithmetics' includes such topics as values of zeta functions and relations to K-theory, K-theory of integers in number fields and associated conjectures, Etale cohomology, Iwasawa theory etc. A.O. Kuku's contributions on 'K-theory and Representation theory

Deriving the Regression Line with Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Quintanilla, John A.

2017-01-01

Exploration with spreadsheets and reliance on previous skills can lead students to determine the line of best fit. To perform linear regression on a set of data, students in Algebra 2 (or, in principle, Algebra 1) do not have to settle for using the mysterious "black box" of their graphing calculators (or other classroom technologies).…

An Intervention Including an Online Game to Improve Grade 6 Students' Performance in Early Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Kolovou, Angeliki; van den Heuvel-Panhuizen, Marja; Koller, Olaf

2013-01-01

This study investigated whether an intervention including an online game contributed to 236 Grade 6 students' performance in early algebra, that is, solving problems with covarying quantities. An exploratory quasi-experimental study was conducted with a pretest-posttest-control-group design. Students in the experimental group were asked to solve…

Error-Detecting Identification Codes for Algebra Students.

Science.gov (United States)

Sutherland, David C.

1990-01-01

Discusses common error-detecting identification codes using linear algebra terminology to provide an interesting application of algebra. Presents examples from the International Standard Book Number, the Universal Product Code, bank identification numbers, and the ZIP code bar code. (YP)

Lie-Algebras. Pt. 1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Baeuerle, G.G.A.; Kerf, E.A. de

1990-01-01

The structure of the laws in physics is largely based on symmetries. This book is on Lie algebras, the mathematics of symmetry. It gives a thorough mathematical treatment of finite dimensional Lie algebras and Kac-Moody algebras. Concepts such as Cartan matrix, root system, Serre's construction are carefully introduced. Although the book can be read by an undergraduate with only an elementary knowledge of linear algebra, the book will also be of use to the experienced researcher. Experience has shown that students who followed the lectures are well-prepared to take on research in the realms of string-theory, conformal field-theory and integrable systems. 48 refs.; 66 figs.; 3 tabs

Who Takes College Algebra?

Science.gov (United States)

Herriott, Scott R.; Dunbar, Steven R.

2009-01-01

The common understanding within the mathematics community is that the role of the college algebra course is to prepare students for calculus. Though exceptions are emerging, the curriculum of most college algebra courses and the content of most textbooks on the market both reflect that assumption. This article calls that assumption into question…

Problems in abstract algebra

CERN Document Server

Wadsworth, A R

2017-01-01

This is a book of problems in abstract algebra for strong undergraduates or beginning graduate students. It can be used as a supplement to a course or for self-study. The book provides more variety and more challenging problems than are found in most algebra textbooks. It is intended for students wanting to enrich their learning of mathematics by tackling problems that take some thought and effort to solve. The book contains problems on groups (including the Sylow Theorems, solvable groups, presentation of groups by generators and relations, and structure and duality for finite abelian groups); rings (including basic ideal theory and factorization in integral domains and Gauss's Theorem); linear algebra (emphasizing linear transformations, including canonical forms); and fields (including Galois theory). Hints to many problems are also included.

The analysis of mathematics teachers' learning on algebra function limit material based on teaching experience difference

Science.gov (United States)

Ma'rufi, Budayasa, I. Ketut; Juniati, Dwi

2017-08-01

The aim of this study was to describe the analysis of mathematics teachers' learning on algebra function limit material based on teaching experience difference. The purpose of this study is to describe the analysis of mathematics teacher's learning on limit algebraic functions in terms of the differences of teaching experience. Learning analysis focused on Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) of teachers in mathematics on limit algebraic functions related to the knowledge of pedagogy. PCK of teachers on limit algebraic function is a type of specialized knowledge for teachers on how to teach limit algebraic function that can be understood by students. Subjects are two high school mathematics teacher who has difference of teaching experience they are one Novice Teacher (NP) and one Experienced Teacher (ET). Data are collected through observation of learning in the class, videos of learning, and then analyzed using qualitative analysis. Teacher's knowledge of Pedagogic defined as a knowledge and understanding of teacher about planning and organizing of learning, and application of learning strategy. The research results showed that the Knowledge of Pedagogy on subject NT in mathematics learning on the material of limit function algebra showed that the subject NT tended to describe procedurally, without explaining the reasons why such steps were used, asking questions which tended to be monotonous not be guiding and digging deeper, and less varied in the use of learning strategies while subject ET gave limited guidance and opportunities to the students to find their own answers, exploit the potential of students to answer questions, provide an opportunity for students to interact and work in groups, and subject ET tended to combine conceptual and procedural explanation.

Solving Absolute Value Equations Algebraically and Geometrically

Science.gov (United States)

Shiyuan, Wei

2005-01-01

The way in which students can improve their comprehension by understanding the geometrical meaning of algebraic equations or solving algebraic equation geometrically is described. Students can experiment with the conditions of the absolute value equation presented, for an interesting way to form an overall understanding of the concept.

Basic linear algebra

CERN Document Server

Blyth, T S

2002-01-01

Basic Linear Algebra is a text for first year students leading from concrete examples to abstract theorems, via tutorial-type exercises. More exercises (of the kind a student may expect in examination papers) are grouped at the end of each section. The book covers the most important basics of any first course on linear algebra, explaining the algebra of matrices with applications to analytic geometry, systems of linear equations, difference equations and complex numbers. Linear equations are treated via Hermite normal forms which provides a successful and concrete explanation of the notion of linear independence. Another important highlight is the connection between linear mappings and matrices leading to the change of basis theorem which opens the door to the notion of similarity. This new and revised edition features additional exercises and coverage of Cramer's rule (omitted from the first edition). However, it is the new, extra chapter on computer assistance that will be of particular interest to readers:...

Algebraic K-theory

CERN Document Server

Srinivas, V

1996-01-01

Algebraic K-Theory has become an increasingly active area of research. With its connections to algebra, algebraic geometry, topology, and number theory, it has implications for a wide variety of researchers and graduate students in mathematics. The book is based on lectures given at the author's home institution, the Tata Institute in Bombay, and elsewhere. A detailed appendix on topology was provided in the first edition to make the treatment accessible to readers with a limited background in topology. The second edition also includes an appendix on algebraic geometry that contains the required definitions and results needed to understand the core of the book; this makes the book accessible to a wider audience. A central part of the book is a detailed exposition of the ideas of Quillen as contained in his classic papers "Higher Algebraic K-Theory, I, II." A more elementary proof of the theorem of Merkujev--Suslin is given in this edition; this makes the treatment of this topic self-contained. An application ...

College Algebra I.

Science.gov (United States)

Benjamin, Carl; And Others

Presented are student performance objectives, a student progress chart, and assignment sheets with objective and diagnostic measures for the stated performance objectives in College Algebra I. Topics covered include: sets; vocabulary; linear equations; inequalities; real numbers; operations; factoring; fractions; formulas; ratio, proportion, and…

Individual and Collective Analyses of the Genesis of Student Reasoning Regarding the Invertible Matrix Theorem in Linear Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Wawro, Megan Jean

2011-01-01

In this study, I considered the development of mathematical meaning related to the Invertible Matrix Theorem (IMT) for both a classroom community and an individual student over time. In this particular linear algebra course, the IMT was a core theorem in that it connected many concepts fundamental to linear algebra through the notion of…

Relational Thinking: Learning Arithmetic in Order to Promote Algebraic Thinking

Science.gov (United States)

Napaphun, Vishnu

2012-01-01

Trends in the curriculum reform propose that algebra should be taught throughout the grades, starting in elementary school. The aim should be to decrease the discontinuity between the arithmetic in elementary school and the algebra in upper grades. This study was conducted to investigate and characterise upper elementary school students…

A concrete introduction to higher algebra

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Childs, Lindsay N

1995-01-01

This book is written as an introduction to higher algebra for students with a background of a year of calculus. The first edition of this book emerged from a set of notes written in the 1970sfor a sophomore-junior level course at the University at Albany entitled "Classical Algebra." The objective of the course, and the book, is to give students enough experience in the algebraic theory of the integers and polynomials to appre­ ciate the basic concepts of abstract algebra. The main theoretical thread is to develop algebraic properties of the ring of integers: unique factorization into primes, congruences and congruence classes, Fermat's theorem, the Chinese remainder theorem; and then again for the ring of polynomials. Doing so leads to the study of simple field extensions, and, in particular, to an exposition of finite fields. Elementary properties of rings, fields, groups, and homomorphisms of these objects are introduced and used as needed in the development. Concurrently with the theoretical development,...

Difficulties faced by eighth grade students in the learning of linear equation problems at a high school in Heredia

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Gilberto Chavarría Arroyo

2014-06-01

Full Text Available The current article presents the results of a study that aimed to analyze the difficulties faced by eighth grade students when learning to solve algebraic problems based on linear equations with one unknown variable. The participants were learners with low average performance in mathematics at a high school in Heredia. The research followed a naturalistic paradigm and the case study method with a qualitative approach. Different techniques like class observations, questionnaires to students, non-structured interviews to teachers and interviews to the learners were applied. The research helped to identify the main causes of difficulty when learning to solve algebraic problems. Some of the causes that were identified are affective aspects, lack of previous knowledge, poor relational understanding, fatigue, diversion, reading deficiencies and misunderstanding of terminology.

Frequent fliers, school phobias, and the sick student: school health personnel's perceptions of students who refuse school.

Science.gov (United States)

Torrens Armstrong, Anna M; McCormack Brown, Kelli R; Brindley, Roger; Coreil, Jeannine; McDermott, Robert J

2011-09-01

This study explored school personnel's perceptions of school refusal, as it has been described as a "common educational and public health problem" that is less tolerated due to increasing awareness of the potential socioeconomic consequences of this phenomenon. In-depth interviews were conducted with school personnel at the middle school (N = 42), high school (N = 40), and district levels (N = 10). The findings focus on emergent themes from interviews with school health personnel (N = 12), particularly those themes related to their perceptions of and role in working with school-refusing students. Personnel, especially school health services staff, constructed a typification of the school-refusing student as "the sick student," which conceptualized student refusal due to reasons related to illness. Personnel further delineated sick students by whether they considered the illness legitimate. School health personnel referenced the infamous "frequent fliers" and "school phobics" within this categorization of students. Overarching dynamics of this typification included parental control, parental awareness, student locus of control, blame, and victim status. These typifications influenced how personnel reacted to students they encountered, particularly in deciding which students need "help" versus "discipline," thus presenting implications for students and screening of students. Overall, findings suggest school health personnel play a pivotal role in screening students who are refusing school as well as keeping students in school, underscoring policy that supports an increased presence of school health personnel. Recommendations for school health, prevention, and early intervention include the development of screening protocols and staff training. © 2011, American School Health Association.

Using Solution Strategies to Examine and Promote High-School Students' Understanding of Exponential Functions: One Teacher's Attempt

Science.gov (United States)

Brendefur, Jonathan

2014-01-01

Much research has been conducted on how elementary students develop mathematical understanding and subsequently how teachers might use this information. This article builds on this type of work by investigating how one high-school algebra teacher designs and conducts a lesson on exponential functions. Through a lesson study format she studies with…

Parts of the Whole: An Algebra Lesson

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Dorothy Wallace

2011-07-01

Full Text Available This column draws on research of Eon Harper to demonstrate how an understanding of his proposed stages of algebra acquisition would inform a systemic overhaul of algebra education. Harper's stages also explain why students may pass a series of algebra courses yet still be unable to make sense of calculus, as well as offering insight on what aspects of algebra support quantitative literacy.

Difficulties in Initial Algebra Learning in Indonesia

Science.gov (United States)

Jupri, Al; Drijvers, Paul; van den Heuvel-Panhuizen, Marja

2014-01-01

Within mathematics curricula, algebra has been widely recognized as one of the most difficult topics, which leads to learning difficulties worldwide. In Indonesia, algebra performance is an important issue. In the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2007, Indonesian students' achievement in the algebra domain was…

Pedagogical content knowledge: Knowledge of pedagogy novice teachers in mathematics learning on limit algebraic function

Science.gov (United States)

Ma'rufi, Budayasa, I. Ketut; Juniati, Dwi

2017-02-01

Teacher is one of the key aspects of student's achievement. Teachers should master content material taught, how to teach it, and can interpret the students' thinking so that students easily understand the subject matter. This research was a qualitative research that aimed at describing profile of PCK's teachers in mathematics on limit algebraic functions in terms of the differences of teaching experience. Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) and understanding of teachers is defined as involving the relationship between knowledge of teaching materials, how to transfer the subject matter, and the knowledge of students in mathematics on limit algebraic functions that the subject matter may be understood by students. The PCK components in this research were knowledge of subject matter, knowledge of pedagogy, and knowledge of students. Knowledge of pedagogy defines as knowledge and understanding of teachers about the planning and organization of the learning and teaching strategy of limit algebraic function. The subjects were two mathematics high school teachers who teach in class XI IPS. Data were collected through observation of learning during five meetings and interviews before and after the lesson continued with qualitative data analysis. Focus of this article was to describe novice teacher's knowledge of student in mathematics learning on limit algebraic function. Based on the results of the analysis of qualitative data the data concluded that novice teacher's knowledge of pedagogy in mathematics on limit algebraic function showed: 1) in teaching the definitions tend to identify prior knowledge of the student experience with the material to be studied, but not in the form of a problem, 2) in posing the questions tend to be monotonous non lead and dig, 3) in response to student questions preservice teachers do not take advantage of the characteristics or the potential of other students, 4) in addressing the problem of students, tend to use the drill approach and did

The Work of Lagrange in Number Theory and Algebra

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

GENERAL I ARTICLE. The Work of Lagrange in Number Theory and Algebra. D P Patil, C R Pranesachar and Renuka RafJindran. (left) D P Patil got his Ph.D from the School of Math- ematics, TIFR and joined. IISc in 1992. His interests are commutative algebra, algebraic geometry and algebraic number theory. (right) C R ...

Non-commutative multiple-valued logic algebras

CERN Document Server

Ciungu, Lavinia Corina

2014-01-01

This monograph provides a self-contained and easy-to-read introduction to non-commutative multiple-valued logic algebras; a subject which has attracted much interest in the past few years because of its impact on information science, artificial intelligence and other subjects.   A study of the newest results in the field, the monograph includes treatment of pseudo-BCK algebras, pseudo-hoops, residuated lattices, bounded divisible residuated lattices, pseudo-MTL algebras, pseudo-BL algebras and pseudo-MV algebras. It provides a fresh perspective on new trends in logic and algebras in that algebraic structures can be developed into fuzzy logics which connect quantum mechanics, mathematical logic, probability theory, algebra and soft computing.   Written in a clear, concise and direct manner, Non-Commutative Multiple-Valued Logic Algebras will be of interest to masters and PhD students, as well as researchers in mathematical logic and theoretical computer science.

The Effect of Graphing Calculators on Student Achievement in College Algebra and Pre-Calculus Mathematics Courses

Science.gov (United States)

Hatem, Neil

2010-01-01

This study investigates the relationship between the use of graphing calculators employed as Type II technology and student achievement, as determined by assessing students' problem solving skills associated with the concept of function, at the college algebra and pre-calculus level. In addition, this study explores the integration of graphing…

How Middle Grade Teachers Think about Algebraic Reasoning

Science.gov (United States)

Glassmeyer, David; Edwards, Belinda

2016-01-01

Algebraic reasoning is an essential habit of mind for building conceptual knowledge in K-12 mathematics, yet little is known about how middle school mathematics teachers think about algebraic reasoning. In this article we describe a research project examining how algebraic reasoning was considered by grades 6, 7, or 8 mathematics teachers in a…

Vanishing theorems and effective results in algebraic geometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Demailly, J.P.; Goettsche, L.; Lazarsfeld, R.

2001-01-01

The School on Vanishing Theorems and Effective Results in Algebraic Geometry took place in ICTP, Trieste from 25 April 2000 to 12 May 2000. It was organized by J. P. Demailly (Universite de Grenoble I) and R. Lazarsfeld (University of Michigan). The main topics considered were vanishing theorems, multiplyer ideal sheaves and effective results in algebraic geometry, tight closure, geometry of higher dimensional projective and Kahler manifolds, hyperbolic algebraic varieties. The school consisted of two weeks of lectures and one week of conference. This volume contains the lecture notes of most of the lectures in the first two weeks

Vanishing theorems and effective results in algebraic geometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Demailly, J P [Universite de Grenoble (France); Goettsche, L [Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics, Trieste (Italy); Lazarsfeld, R [University of Michigan (United States)

2001-12-15

The School on Vanishing Theorems and Effective Results in Algebraic Geometry took place in ICTP, Trieste from 25 April 2000 to 12 May 2000. It was organized by J. P. Demailly (Universite de Grenoble I) and R. Lazarsfeld (University of Michigan). The main topics considered were vanishing theorems, multiplyer ideal sheaves and effective results in algebraic geometry, tight closure, geometry of higher dimensional projective and Kahler manifolds, hyperbolic algebraic varieties. The school consisted of two weeks of lectures and one week of conference. This volume contains the lecture notes of most of the lectures in the first two weeks.

Students' Distributive Reasoning with Fractions and Unknowns

Science.gov (United States)

Hackenberg, Amy J.; Lee, Mi Yeon

2016-01-01

To understand relationships between students' quantitative reasoning with fractions and their algebraic reasoning, a clinical interview study was conducted with 18 middle and high school students. The study included six students with each of three different multiplicative concepts, which are based on how students create and coordinate composite…

The structure of algebraic problem in high schools

OpenAIRE

Chio, José Angel; Álvarez, Aida; Estrada, Pablo

2010-01-01

The paper is aimed at discussing the importance of pupil’s knowledge of algebraic problem structure. The research started by diagnosing pupil’s actual command of algebraic problem structure. Finally suggestions to teachers of mathematics for facing difficulties in solving problems are given.

A Quantitative Reasoning Approach to Algebra Using Inquiry-Based Learning

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Victor I. Piercey

2017-07-01

Full Text Available In this paper, I share a hybrid quantitative reasoning/algebra two-course sequence that challenges the common assumption that quantitative literacy and reasoning are less rigorous mathematics alternatives to algebra and illustrates that a quantitative reasoning framework can be used to teach traditional algebra. The presentation is made in two parts. In the first part, which is somewhat philosophical and theoretical, I explain my personal perspective of what I mean by “algebra” and “doing algebra.” I contend that algebra is a form of communication whose value is precision, which allows us to perform algebraic manipulations in the form of simplification and solving moves. A quantitative reasoning approach to traditional algebraic manipulations rests on intentional and purposeful use of simplification and solving moves within contextual situations. In part 2, I describe a 6-week instructional module intended for undergraduate business students that was delivered to students who had placed into beginning algebra. The perspective described in part 1 heavily informed the design of this module. The course materials, which involve the use of Excel in multiple authentic contexts, are built around the use of inquiry-based learning. Upon completion of this module, the percentage of students who successfully complete model problems in an assessment is in the same range as surveyed students in precalculus and calculus, approximately two “grade levels” ahead of their placement.

Does Self-Regulated Learning-Skills Training Improve High-School Students' Self-Regulation, Math Achievement, and Motivation While Using an Intelligent Tutor?

Science.gov (United States)

Barrus, Angela

2013-01-01

This study empirically evaluated the effectiveness of the instructional design, learning tools, and role of the teacher in three versions of a semester-long, high-school remedial Algebra I course to determine what impact self-regulated learning skills and learning pattern training have on students' self-regulation, math achievement, and…

Student Reactions to Learning Theory Based Curriculum Materials in Linear Algebra--A Survey Analysis

Science.gov (United States)

Cooley, Laurel; Vidakovic, Draga; Martin, William O.; Dexter, Scott; Suzuki, Jeff

2016-01-01

In this report we examine students' perceptions of the implementation of carefully designed curriculum materials (called modules) in linear algebra courses at three different universities. The curricular materials were produced collaboratively by STEM and mathematics education faculty as members of a professional learning community (PLC) over…

A set for relational reasoning: Facilitation of algebraic modeling by a fraction task.

Science.gov (United States)

DeWolf, Melissa; Bassok, Miriam; Holyoak, Keith J

2016-12-01

Recent work has identified correlations between early mastery of fractions and later math achievement, especially in algebra. However, causal connections between aspects of reasoning with fractions and improved algebra performance have yet to be established. The current study investigated whether relational reasoning with fractions facilitates subsequent algebraic reasoning using both pre-algebra students and adult college students. Participants were first given either a relational reasoning fractions task or a fraction algebra procedures control task. Then, all participants solved word problems and constructed algebraic equations in either multiplication or division format. The word problems and the equation construction tasks involved simple multiplicative comparison statements such as "There are 4 times as many students as teachers in a classroom." Performance on the algebraic equation construction task was enhanced for participants who had previously completed the relational fractions task compared with those who completed the fraction algebra procedures task. This finding suggests that relational reasoning with fractions can establish a relational set that promotes students' tendency to model relations using algebraic expressions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Students' Understandings and Misconceptions of Algebraic Inequalities

Science.gov (United States)

Rowntree, Rebecca V.

2009-01-01

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics [NCTM] requires students in grades nine through 12 to be able to explain inequalities using mathematical relational symbols and be able to understand the meaning of inequalities and their solutions (NCTM, 2000). Studies have shown that not only middle and high school students have difficulties with…

Preparing Elementary Prospective Teachers to Teach Early Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Hohensee, Charles

2017-01-01

Researchers have argued that integrating early algebra into elementary grades will better prepare students for algebra. However, currently little research exists to guide teacher preparation programs on how to prepare prospective elementary teachers to teach early algebra. This study examines the insights and challenges that prospective teachers…

The structure of algebraic problem in high schools

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Chio, José Angel

2010-01-01

Full Text Available The paper is aimed at discussing the importance of pupil’s knowledge of algebraic problem structure. The research started by diagnosing pupil’s actual command of algebraic problem structure. Finally suggestions to teachers of mathematics for facing difficulties in solving problems are given.

Spontaneous Meta-Arithmetic as the First Step Toward School Algebra (La meta-aritmética espontánea como el primer paso hacia el álgebra escolar

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Shai Caspi

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Taking as a point of departure the vision of school algebra as a formalized meta-discourse of arithmetic, we have been following six pairs of 7th-grade students (12-13 years old as they gradually modify their spontaneous meta-arithmetic toward the “official” algebraic form of talk. In this paper we take a look at the very beginning of this process. Preliminary analyses of data have shown, unsurprisingly, that while reflecting on arithmetic processes and relations, the uninitiated 7th graders were employing colloquial means, which could not protect them against occasional ambiguities. More unexpectedly, this spontaneous meta-arithmetic, although not supported by any previous algebraic schooling, displayed some algebra-like features, not to be normally found in everyday discourses.Tomando como punto de partida la visión del álgebra escolar como un meta-discurso formalizado de la aritmética, hemos estado siguiendo a seis pares de estudiantes de 7º curso (12-13 años cuando modifican gradualmente su meta-aritmética espontánea hacia la forma algebraica “oficial” de hablar. En este artículo miramos el principio de este proceso. Los análisis preliminares de los datos han mostrado, como era de esperar, que mientras reflexionaban sobre los procesos y relaciones aritméticas, los alumnos no iniciados emplearon medios coloquiales que no evitaban las ambigüedades ocasionales. Más inesperadamente, esta meta-aritmética espontánea, a pesar de no apoyarse en ninguna enseñanza algebraica previa, desplegó algunas características similares al álgebra que no se encuentran normalmente en los discursos diarios.

The Algebra of Complex Numbers.

Science.gov (United States)

LePage, Wilbur R.

This programed text is an introduction to the algebra of complex numbers for engineering students, particularly because of its relevance to important problems of applications in electrical engineering. It is designed for a person who is well experienced with the algebra of real numbers and calculus, but who has no experience with complex number…

Applied matrix algebra in the statistical sciences

CERN Document Server

Basilevsky, Alexander

2005-01-01

This comprehensive text offers teachings relevant to both applied and theoretical branches of matrix algebra and provides a bridge between linear algebra and statistical models. Appropriate for advanced undergraduate and graduate students. 1983 edition.

A Meta-Analysis of Algebra Interventions for Learners with Disabilities and Struggling Learners

Science.gov (United States)

Hughes, Elizabeth M.; Witzel, Bradley S.; Riccomini, Paul J.; Fries, Karen M.; Kanyongo, Gibbs Y.

2014-01-01

The need for global competence in mathematics is apparent. Algebra is considered a gateway course to prepare students for the demands of a competitive global market. Many students demonstrate low performance in algebra; this is especially true for students with disabilities. Effective algebra instruction is essential to increase algebra…

Early Integration of Tutorial Support in Beginning Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Copus, Colleen; McKinney, Betsy

2016-01-01

Anecdotal observations reveal that most students with strong arithmetic skills will succeed in the Beginning Algebra course even if they have no previous experience with algebra. In trying to quantify this with an initial teacher-created survey of arithmetic skills, it was observed, for three consecutive semesters, that students who scored in the…

Test bank for college algebra

CERN Document Server

Kolman, Bernard; Levitan, Michael L

1985-01-01

Test Bank for College Algebra, Second Edition is a supplementary material for the text, College Algebra, Second Edition. The book is intended for use by mathematics teachers.The book contains standard tests for each chapter in the textbook. Each set of test aims to evaluate the level of understanding the student has achieved during the course. The answers for each chapter test and the final exam are found at the end of the book.Mathematics teachers teaching college algebra will find the book very useful.

Relationship of Mathematics Olympiad Performance of Gifted Students with IQ and Mathematics Achievement

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ali İhsan BORAN

2015-04-01

Full Text Available The purpose of this study is to investigate relationship of mathematics Olympiad (analysis-algebra and geometry scores of gifted students with IQ scores (verbal, performance and general and mathematics achievement scores of the gifted students. Study group of the study included 64 gifted students (27 girls and 37 boys who took courses from one Science and Art Center. Data of study involved scores of the participants on mathematics Olympiad exam, WISC-R test and school mathematics achievement. For analysis of the data Pearson correlation analysis, Spearman correlation analysis, independent groups’ t-test and Mann Whitney U test were utilized. The findings showed that there was no significant relationship between the Olympiad scores on analysis-algebra and geometry and IQ scores (general, performance and verbal. But the Olympiad scores on analysis-algebra and geometry factors were significantly related to school mathematics achievement. Comparing IQ scores of highest and lowest scorer groups on the Olympiad scores showed that there were no significant differences between IQ scores (general, performance and verbal of the groups. However school mathematics scores of the participants significantly differed in terms of groups determined based on analysis-algebra and geometry scores.

Linear Algebra and Image Processing

Science.gov (United States)

Allali, Mohamed

2010-01-01

We use the computing technology digital image processing (DIP) to enhance the teaching of linear algebra so as to make the course more visual and interesting. Certainly, this visual approach by using technology to link linear algebra to DIP is interesting and unexpected to both students as well as many faculty. (Contains 2 tables and 11 figures.)

Emphasizing Language and Visualization in Teaching Linear Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Hannah, John; Stewart, Sepideh; Thomas, Mike

2013-01-01

Linear algebra with its rich theoretical nature is a first step towards advanced mathematical thinking for many undergraduate students. In this paper, we consider the teaching approach of an experienced mathematician as he attempts to engage his students with the key ideas embedded in a second-year course in linear algebra. We describe his…

Introduction to applied algebraic systems

CERN Document Server

Reilly, Norman R

2009-01-01

This upper-level undergraduate textbook provides a modern view of algebra with an eye to new applications that have arisen in recent years. A rigorous introduction to basic number theory, rings, fields, polynomial theory, groups, algebraic geometry and elliptic curves prepares students for exploring their practical applications related to storing, securing, retrieving and communicating information in the electronic world. It will serve as a textbook for an undergraduate course in algebra with a strong emphasis on applications. The book offers a brief introduction to elementary number theory as

Algebraic topology a first course

CERN Document Server

Fulton, William

1995-01-01

To the Teacher. This book is designed to introduce a student to some of the important ideas of algebraic topology by emphasizing the re­ lations of these ideas with other areas of mathematics. Rather than choosing one point of view of modem topology (homotopy theory, simplicial complexes, singular theory, axiomatic homology, differ­ ential topology, etc.), we concentrate our attention on concrete prob­ lems in low dimensions, introducing only as much algebraic machin­ ery as necessary for the problems we meet. This makes it possible to see a wider variety of important features of the subject than is usual in a beginning text. The book is designed for students of mathematics or science who are not aiming to become practicing algebraic topol­ ogists-without, we hope, discouraging budding topologists. We also feel that this approach is in better harmony with the historical devel­ opment of the subject. What would we like a student to know after a first course in to­ pology (assuming we reject the answer: ...

Vertex algebras and algebraic curves

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Frenkel, Edward

2004-01-01

Vertex algebras are algebraic objects that encapsulate the concept of operator product expansion from two-dimensional conformal field theory. Vertex algebras are fast becoming ubiquitous in many areas of modern mathematics, with applications to representation theory, algebraic geometry, the theory of finite groups, modular functions, topology, integrable systems, and combinatorics. This book is an introduction to the theory of vertex algebras with a particular emphasis on the relationship with the geometry of algebraic curves. The notion of a vertex algebra is introduced in a coordinate-independent way, so that vertex operators become well defined on arbitrary smooth algebraic curves, possibly equipped with additional data, such as a vector bundle. Vertex algebras then appear as the algebraic objects encoding the geometric structure of various moduli spaces associated with algebraic curves. Therefore they may be used to give a geometric interpretation of various questions of representation theory. The book co...

Algebraic partial Boolean algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smith, Derek

2003-01-01

Partial Boolean algebras, first studied by Kochen and Specker in the 1960s, provide the structure for Bell-Kochen-Specker theorems which deny the existence of non-contextual hidden variable theories. In this paper, we study partial Boolean algebras which are 'algebraic' in the sense that their elements have coordinates in an algebraic number field. Several of these algebras have been discussed recently in a debate on the validity of Bell-Kochen-Specker theorems in the context of finite precision measurements. The main result of this paper is that every algebraic finitely-generated partial Boolean algebra B(T) is finite when the underlying space H is three-dimensional, answering a question of Kochen and showing that Conway and Kochen's infinite algebraic partial Boolean algebra has minimum dimension. This result contrasts the existence of an infinite (non-algebraic) B(T) generated by eight elements in an abstract orthomodular lattice of height 3. We then initiate a study of higher-dimensional algebraic partial Boolean algebras. First, we describe a restriction on the determinants of the elements of B(T) that are generated by a given set T. We then show that when the generating set T consists of the rays spanning the minimal vectors in a real irreducible root lattice, B(T) is infinite just if that root lattice has an A 5 sublattice. Finally, we characterize the rays of B(T) when T consists of the rays spanning the minimal vectors of the root lattice E 8

Complex algebraic geometry

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Kollár, János

1997-01-01

This volume contains the lectures presented at the third Regional Geometry Institute at Park City in 1993. The lectures provide an introduction to the subject, complex algebraic geometry, making the book suitable as a text for second- and third-year graduate students. The book deals with topics in algebraic geometry where one can reach the level of current research while starting with the basics. Topics covered include the theory of surfaces from the viewpoint of recent higher-dimensional developments, providing an excellent introduction to more advanced topics such as the minimal model program. Also included is an introduction to Hodge theory and intersection homology based on the simple topological ideas of Lefschetz and an overview of the recent interactions between algebraic geometry and theoretical physics, which involve mirror symmetry and string theory.

So I'm Done Because I'm Confused Now: Measuring Metacognition in Elementary Algebra Community College Students

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Davis, Ann

2009-01-01

This study measured the amounts of different types of metacognitive statements made by students enrolled in Elementary Algebra courses at a community college in California. A total of 17 students were interviewed three times during the course of a semester. All interviews were coded for types of metacognitive statements that fell into one of three…

Homological methods, representation theory, and cluster algebras

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Trepode, Sonia

2018-01-01

This text presents six mini-courses, all devoted to interactions between representation theory of algebras, homological algebra, and the new ever-expanding theory of cluster algebras. The interplay between the topics discussed in this text will continue to grow and this collection of courses stands as a partial testimony to this new development. The courses are useful for any mathematician who would like to learn more about this rapidly developing field; the primary aim is to engage graduate students and young researchers. Prerequisites include knowledge of some noncommutative algebra or homological algebra. Homological algebra has always been considered as one of the main tools in the study of finite-dimensional algebras. The strong relationship with cluster algebras is more recent and has quickly established itself as one of the important highlights of today’s mathematical landscape. This connection has been fruitful to both areas—representation theory provides a categorification of cluster algebras, wh...

Elementary algebraic geometry

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Kendig, Keith

2015-01-01

Designed to make learning introductory algebraic geometry as easy as possible, this text is intended for advanced undergraduates and graduate students who have taken a one-year course in algebra and are familiar with complex analysis. This newly updated second edition enhances the original treatment's extensive use of concrete examples and exercises with numerous figures that have been specially redrawn in Adobe Illustrator. An introductory chapter that focuses on examples of curves is followed by a more rigorous and careful look at plane curves. Subsequent chapters explore commutative ring th

Hypotetical learning trajectory to anticipate mathematics anxiety in algebra learning based on the perspective of didactical situation theory

Science.gov (United States)

Yuliani, R. E.; Suryadi, D.; Dahlan, J. A.

2018-05-01

The objective of this research is to design an alleged teacher learning path or Hypotetical Learning Trajectory (HLT) to anticipate mathematics anxiety of students in learning algebra. HLT loads expected mathematics learning objectives, estimates the level of knowledge and understanding of the students, as well as the selection of mathematical activity in accordance with the learning competencies. This research uses educational design research method. The research steps consist of a preliminary design, experimental and retrospective analysis. Data were gathered from various sources, such as data is written during the research process of test results, documentation, sheet results of students' work, results of interviews, questionnaires, and video recordings. The subjects of the study were 10 junior high school students. Based on the research identified 2 students at the level of high anxiety, 7 people at medium anxiety level and 1 student at low anxiety level. High anxiety levels about 20%, was approximately 70% and approximately 10% lower. These results can be used as an evaluation and reflection for designing materials that can anticipate mathematics anxiety of students learning algebra concepts.

Exploring Interactive and Dynamic Simulations Using a Computer Algebra System in an Advanced Placement Chemistry Course

Science.gov (United States)

Matsumoto, Paul S.

2014-01-01

The article describes the use of Mathematica, a computer algebra system (CAS), in a high school chemistry course. Mathematica was used to generate a graph, where a slider controls the value of parameter(s) in the equation; thus, students can visualize the effect of the parameter(s) on the behavior of the system. Also, Mathematica can show the…

Topics in quaternion linear algebra

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Rodman, Leiba

2014-01-01

Quaternions are a number system that has become increasingly useful for representing the rotations of objects in three-dimensional space and has important applications in theoretical and applied mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering. This is the first book to provide a systematic, accessible, and self-contained exposition of quaternion linear algebra. It features previously unpublished research results with complete proofs and many open problems at various levels, as well as more than 200 exercises to facilitate use by students and instructors. Applications presented in the book include numerical ranges, invariant semidefinite subspaces, differential equations with symmetries, and matrix equations. Designed for researchers and students across a variety of disciplines, the book can be read by anyone with a background in linear algebra, rudimentary complex analysis, and some multivariable calculus. Instructors will find it useful as a complementary text for undergraduate linear algebra courses...

Teaching Quantitative Reasoning: A Better Context for Algebra

OpenAIRE

Eric Gaze

2014-01-01

This editorial questions the preeminence of algebra in our mathematics curriculum. The GATC (Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus) sequence abandons the fundamental middle school math topics necessary for quantitative literacy, while the standard super-abundance of algebra taught in the abstract fosters math phobia and supports a culturally acceptable stance that math is not relevant to everyday life. Although GATC is seen as a pipeline to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathemat...

Cartooning in Algebra and Calculus

Science.gov (United States)

Moseley, L. Jeneva

2014-01-01

This article discusses how teachers can create cartoons for undergraduate math classes, such as college algebra and basic calculus. The practice of cartooning for teaching can be helpful for communication with students and for students' conceptual understanding.

Designing Spreadsheet-Based Tasks for Purposeful Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Ainley, Janet; Bills, Liz; Wilson, Kirsty

2005-01-01

We describe the design of a sequence of spreadsheet-based pedagogic tasks for the introduction of algebra in the early years of secondary schooling within the Purposeful Algebraic Activity project. This design combines two relatively novel features to bring a different perspective to research in the use of spreadsheets for the learning and…

Algebra 1 groups, rings, fields and arithmetic

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Lal, Ramji

2017-01-01

This is the first in a series of three volumes dealing with important topics in algebra. It offers an introduction to the foundations of mathematics together with the fundamental algebraic structures, namely groups, rings, fields, and arithmetic. Intended as a text for undergraduate and graduate students of mathematics, it discusses all major topics in algebra with numerous motivating illustrations and exercises to enable readers to acquire a good understanding of the basic algebraic structures, which they can then use to find the exact or the most realistic solutions to their problems.

Algebra Survival Guide A Conversational Handbook for the Thoroughly Befuddled

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Rappaport, Josh

2011-01-01

If you think algebra has to be boring, confusing and unrelated to anything in the real world, think again! Written in a humorous, conversational style, this book gently nudges students toward success in pre-algebra and Algebra I. With its engaging question/answer format and helpful practice problems, glossary and index, it is ideal for homeschoolers, tutors and students striving for classroom excellence. It features funky icons and lively cartoons by award-winning Santa Fe artist Sally BlakemoreThe Algebra Survival Guide is the winner of a Paretns' Choice award, and it meets the Standards 2000

The structure of relation algebras generated by relativizations

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Givant, Steven R

1994-01-01

The foundation for an algebraic theory of binary relations was laid by De Morgan, Peirce, and Schröder during the second half of the nineteenth century. Modern development of the subject as a theory of abstract algebras, called "relation algebras", was undertaken by Tarski and his students. This book aims to analyze the structure of relation algebras that are generated by relativized subalgebras. As examples of their potential for applications, the main results are used to establish representation theorems for classes of relation algebras and to prove existence and uniqueness theorems for simple closures (i.e., for minimal simple algebras containing a given family of relation algebras as relativized subalgebras). This book is well written and accessible to those who are not specialists in this area. In particular, it contains two introductory chapters on the arithmetic and the algebraic theory of relation algebras. This book is suitable for use in graduate courses on algebras of binary relations or algebraic...

Study guide for college algebra

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Snow, James W; Shapiro, Arnold

1981-01-01

Study Guide for College Algebra is a supplemental material for the basic text, College Algebra. Its purpose is to make the learning of college algebra and trigonometry easier and enjoyable.The book provides detailed solutions to exercises found in the text. Students are encouraged to use the study guide as a learning tool during the duration of the course, a reviewer prior to an exam, a reference book, and as a quick overview before studying a section of the text. The Study Guide and Solutions Manual consists of four major components: basic concepts that should be learned from each unit, what

Early Predictors of High School Mathematics Achievement

Science.gov (United States)

Siegler, Robert S.; Duncan, Greg J.; Davis-Kean, Pamela E.; Duckworth, Kathryn; Claessens, Amy; Engel, Mimi; Susperreguy, Maria Ines; Meichu, Chen

2012-01-01

Identifying the types of mathematics content knowledge that are most predictive of students' long-term learning is essential for improving both theories of mathematical development and mathematics education. To identify these types of knowledge, we examined long-term predictors of high school students' knowledge of algebra and overall mathematics…

Basic algebraic topology and its applications

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Adhikari, Mahima Ranjan

2016-01-01

This book provides an accessible introduction to algebraic topology, a field at the intersection of topology, geometry and algebra, together with its applications. Moreover, it covers several related topics that are in fact important in the overall scheme of algebraic topology. Comprising eighteen chapters and two appendices, the book integrates various concepts of algebraic topology, supported by examples, exercises, applications and historical notes. Primarily intended as a textbook, the book offers a valuable resource for undergraduate, postgraduate and advanced mathematics students alike. Focusing more on the geometric than on algebraic aspects of the subject, as well as its natural development, the book conveys the basic language of modern algebraic topology by exploring homotopy, homology and cohomology theories, and examines a variety of spaces: spheres, projective spaces, classical groups and their quotient spaces, function spaces, polyhedra, topological groups, Lie groups and cell complexes, etc. T...

THE METHODICAL ASPECTS OF THE ALGEBRA AND THE MATHEMATICAL ANALYSIS STUDY USING THE SAGEMATH CLOUD

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

M. Popel

2014-06-01

Full Text Available The quality of mathematics education depends largely on the quality of education in general. The main idea may be summarized as follows: in order to educate the younger generation of people to be able to meet adequately the demands of the time, it is necessary to create conditions for the high-quality mathematics education. Improving the quality of mathematics education of pupils in secondary school is one of the most pressing problems. Contents of the school course of mathematics and its teaching method has always been the subject of undammed and sometimes stormy scientific debates. There are especially true methods of teaching algebra and the analisis in the high secondary school. Still in the study process the algebraic concepts and principles of analysis are given in such an abstract and generalized form that the student may has considerable difficulties to map these general abstract concepts to the certain concrete images, they are generalizations of. Improving education quality indicators can be achieved by using the appropriate computer technology. The article deals with the use of the cloud-oriented systems of computer mathematics (SCM. The prospects of development of the Web-SCM in terms of cloud-based learning environment are considered. The pedagogical features of the SageMath Cloud use as a tool for mathematics learning are revealed. The methodological aspects of algebra and elementary analysis teaching in a high profile school using the cloud-oriented the SCM SageMath Cloud are revealed.

Implementing Student-Level Random Assignment during Summer School: Lessons Learned from an Efficacy Study of Online Algebra I for Credit Recovery

Science.gov (United States)

Heppen, Jessica; Allensworth, Elaine; Walters, Kirk; Pareja, Amber Stitziel; Kurki, Anja; Nomi, Takako; Sorensen, Nicholas

2011-01-01

Credit recovery is one strategy to deal with high failure rates. The primary goal of credit recovery programs is to give students an opportunity to retake classes that they failed in an effort to get them back on track and keep them in school (Watson & Gemin, 2008). Most recently, as schools across the nation struggle to keep students on track…

Linear Algebra and Smarandache Linear Algebra

OpenAIRE

Vasantha, Kandasamy

2003-01-01

The present book, on Smarandache linear algebra, not only studies the Smarandache analogues of linear algebra and its applications, it also aims to bridge the need for new research topics pertaining to linear algebra, purely in the algebraic sense. We have introduced Smarandache semilinear algebra, Smarandache bilinear algebra and Smarandache anti-linear algebra and their fuzzy equivalents. Moreover, in this book, we have brought out the study of linear algebra and vector spaces over finite p...

Basic algebraic geometry, v.2

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Shafarevich, Igor Rostislavovich

1994-01-01

Shafarevich Basic Algebraic Geometry 2 The second edition of Shafarevich's introduction to algebraic geometry is in two volumes. The second volume covers schemes and complex manifolds, generalisations in two different directions of the affine and projective varieties that form the material of the first volume. Two notable additions in this second edition are the section on moduli spaces and representable functors, motivated by a discussion of the Hilbert scheme, and the section on Kähler geometry. The book ends with a historical sketch discussing the origins of algebraic geometry. From the Zentralblatt review of this volume: "... one can only respectfully repeat what has been said about the first part of the book (...): a great textbook, written by one of the leading algebraic geometers and teachers himself, has been reworked and updated. As a result the author's standard textbook on algebraic geometry has become even more important and valuable. Students, teachers, and active researchers using methods of al...

Introduction to vertex algebras, Borcherds algebras and the Monster Lie algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gebert, R.W.

1993-09-01

The theory of vertex algebras constitutes a mathematically rigorous axiomatic formulation of the algebraic origins of conformal field theory. In this context Borcherds algebras arise as certain ''physical'' subspaces of vertex algebras. The aim of this review is to give a pedagogical introduction into this rapidly-developing area of mathematics. Based on the machinery of formal calculus we present the axiomatic definition of vertex algebras. We discuss the connection with conformal field theory by deriving important implications of these axioms. In particular, many explicit calculations are presented to stress the eminent role of the Jacobi identity axiom for vertex algebras. As a class of concrete examples the vertex algebras associated with even lattices are constructed and it is shown in detail how affine Lie algebras and the fake Monster Lie algebra naturally appear. This leads us to the abstract definition of Borcherds algebras as generalized Kac-Moody algebras and their basic properties. Finally, the results about the simplest generic Borcherds algebras are analysed from the point of view of symmetry in quantum theory and the construction of the Monster Lie algebra is sketched. (orig.)

Computational commutative and non-commutative algebraic geometry

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Cojocaru, S; Ufnarovski, V

2005-01-01

This publication gives a good insight in the interplay between commutative and non-commutative algebraic geometry. The theoretical and computational aspects are the central theme in this study. The topic is looked at from different perspectives in over 20 lecture reports. It emphasizes the current trends in commutative and non-commutative algebraic geometry and algebra. The contributors to this publication present the most recent and state-of-the-art progresses which reflect the topic discussed in this publication. Both researchers and graduate students will find this book a good source of information on commutative and non-commutative algebraic geometry.

Representation Theory of Algebraic Groups and Quantum Groups

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Gyoja, A; Shinoda, K-I; Shoji, T; Tanisaki, Toshiyuki

2010-01-01

Invited articles by top notch expertsFocus is on topics in representation theory of algebraic groups and quantum groupsOf interest to graduate students and researchers in representation theory, group theory, algebraic geometry, quantum theory and math physics

Reinventing Fractions and Division as They Are Used in Algebra: The Power of Preformal Productions

Science.gov (United States)

Peck, Frederick; Matassa, Michael

2016-01-01

In this paper, we explore algebra students' mathematical realities around fractions and division, and the ways in which students reinvented mathematical productions involving fractions and division. We find that algebra students' initial realities do not include the fraction-as-quotient sub-construct. This can be problematic because in algebra,…

Algebraic Concepts: What's Really New in New Curricula?

Science.gov (United States)

Star, Jon R.; Herbel-Eisenmann, Beth A.; Smith, John P., III

2000-01-01

Examines 8th grade units from the Connected Mathematics Project (CMP). Identifies differences in older and newer conceptions, fundamental objects of study, typical problems, and typical solution methods in algebra. Also discusses where the issue of what is new in algebra is relevant to many other innovative middle school curricula. (KHR)

Effects of the Good Behavior Game on classwide off-task behavior in a high school basic algebra resource classroom.

Science.gov (United States)

Flower, Andrea; McKenna, John; Muething, Colin S; Bryant, Diane Pedrotty; Bryant, Brian R

2014-01-01

This study investigated the effects of the Good Behavior Game (GBG) on classwide off-task behavior in two ninth-grade basic algebra resource classes. Ten students with a variety of disabilities, in two classrooms, and their special education resource teacher participated in this study. A reversal design was employed, in which the special education teacher implemented GBG compared to typical practice-algebra readiness instruction. Results showed that classwide off-task behavior decreased in the GBG conditions compared to the baseline and reversal conditions. Fidelity measures indicated that the teacher implemented GBG with fidelity. Students and the teacher rated GBG favorably. Overall findings support the use of GBG for reducing classwide off-task behavior. Implications for practice and future research directions are presented.

Enhancing Engagement in Algebra: Didactical Strategies Implemented and Discussed by Teachers

Science.gov (United States)

Nyman, Rimma; Kilhamn, Cecilia

2015-01-01

The aim of this study is to investigate student engagement from the point of view of the teacher, by focusing on teacher's didactical strategies used to engage students during algebra introduction. Eight teachers in grade 6 and 7 participated in a focus-group interview study. The findings are based on episodes of student engagement in algebra and…

Student-teacher relationships matter for school inclusion: school belonging, disability, and school transitions.

Science.gov (United States)

Crouch, Ronald; Keys, Christopher B; McMahon, Susan D

2014-01-01

For students with disabilities, the process of school inclusion often begins with a move from segregated settings into general education classrooms. School transitions can be stressful as students adjust to a new environment. This study examines the adjustment of 133 students with and without disabilities who moved from a school that served primarily students with disabilities into 23 public schools in a large urban school district in the Midwest. These students and 111 of their teachers and other school staff rated the degree that students felt they belonged in their new schools and the quality of their social interactions. Results show that students who experienced more positive and fewer negative social interactions with school staff had higher school belonging. Teachers accurately noted whether students felt they belonged in their new settings, but were not consistently able to identify student perceptions of negative social interactions with staff. Implications for inclusion and improving our educational system are explored.

Algebra & trigonometry I essentials

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REA, Editors of

2012-01-01

REA's Essentials provide quick and easy access to critical information in a variety of different fields, ranging from the most basic to the most advanced. As its name implies, these concise, comprehensive study guides summarize the essentials of the field covered. Essentials are helpful when preparing for exams, doing homework and will remain a lasting reference source for students, teachers, and professionals. Algebra & Trigonometry I includes sets and set operations, number systems and fundamental algebraic laws and operations, exponents and radicals, polynomials and rational expressions, eq

Algebra & trigonometry super review

CERN Document Server

2012-01-01

Get all you need to know with Super Reviews! Each Super Review is packed with in-depth, student-friendly topic reviews that fully explain everything about the subject. The Algebra and Trigonometry Super Review includes sets and set operations, number systems and fundamental algebraic laws and operations, exponents and radicals, polynomials and rational expressions, equations, linear equations and systems of linear equations, inequalities, relations and functions, quadratic equations, equations of higher order, ratios, proportions, and variations. Take the Super Review quizzes to see how much y

Linear Algebra Thoroughly Explained

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Vujičić, Milan

2008-01-01

Linear Algebra Thoroughly Explained provides a comprehensive introduction to the subject suitable for adoption as a self-contained text for courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level. The clear and comprehensive presentation of the basic theory is illustrated throughout with an abundance of worked examples. The book is written for teachers and students of linear algebra at all levels and across mathematics and the applied sciences, particularly physics and engineering. It will also be an invaluable addition to research libraries as a comprehensive resource book for the subject.

Lie groups and Lie algebras for physicists

CERN Document Server

Das, Ashok

2015-01-01

The book is intended for graduate students of theoretical physics (with a background in quantum mechanics) as well as researchers interested in applications of Lie group theory and Lie algebras in physics. The emphasis is on the inter-relations of representation theories of Lie groups and the corresponding Lie algebras.

Designing Algebraic Tasks for 7-Year-Old Students--A Pilot Project Inspired by Davydov's "Learning Activity" Concept

Science.gov (United States)

Eriksson, Inger; Jansson, Anders

2017-01-01

The issue of this article is to identify and discuss what conditions may be necessary to build into tasks to make it likely for students to be involved in an algebraic Learning Activity inspired by Davydov. Data from a pilot study was used in which a group of students (N = 28) in grade 1 (7-year-olds) were invited to participate in discussions and…

Topology, ergodic theory, real algebraic geometry Rokhlin's memorial

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Turaev, V

2001-01-01

This book is dedicated to the memory of the outstanding Russian mathematician, V. A. Rokhlin (1919-1984). It is a collection of research papers written by his former students and followers, who are now experts in their fields. The topics in this volume include topology (the Morse-Novikov theory, spin bordisms in dimension 6, and skein modules of links), real algebraic geometry (real algebraic curves, plane algebraic surfaces, algebraic links, and complex orientations), dynamics (ergodicity, amenability, and random bundle transformations), geometry of Riemannian manifolds, theory of Teichmüller

Blocks of tame representation type and related algebras

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Erdmann, Karin

1990-01-01

This monograph studies algebras that are associated to blocks of tame representation type. Over the past few years, a range of new results have been obtained and a comprehensive account of these is provided here to- gether with some new proofs of known results. Some general theory of algebras is also presented, as a means of understanding the subject. The book is addressed to researchers and graduate students interested in the links between representations of finite-dimensional algebras and modular group representation theory. The basic properties of modules and finite-dimensional algebras are assumed known.

Quantum W-algebras and elliptic algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Feigin, B.; Kyoto Univ.; Frenkel, E.

1996-01-01

We define a quantum W-algebra associated to sl N as an associative algebra depending on two parameters. For special values of the parameters, this algebra becomes the ordinary W-algebra of sl N , or the q-deformed classical W-algebra of sl N . We construct free field realizations of the quantum W-algebras and the screening currents. We also point out some interesting elliptic structures arising in these algebras. In particular, we show that the screening currents satisfy elliptic analogues of the Drinfeld relations in U q (n). (orig.)

The impact of fraction magnitude knowledge on algebra performance and learning.

Science.gov (United States)

Booth, Julie L; Newton, Kristie J; Twiss-Garrity, Laura K

2014-02-01

Knowledge of fractions is thought to be crucial for success with algebra, but empirical evidence supporting this conjecture is just beginning to emerge. In the current study, Algebra 1 students completed magnitude estimation tasks on three scales (0-1 [fractions], 0-1,000,000, and 0-62,571) just before beginning their unit on equation solving. Results indicated that fraction magnitude knowledge, and not whole number knowledge, was especially related to students' pretest knowledge of equation solving and encoding of equation features. Pretest fraction knowledge was also predictive of students' improvement in equation solving and equation encoding skills. Students' placement of unit fractions (e.g., those with a numerator of 1) was not especially useful for predicting algebra performance and learning in this population. Placement of non-unit fractions was more predictive, suggesting that proportional reasoning skills might be an important link between fraction knowledge and learning algebra. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of Using Problem of the Week in Teaching on Teacher Learning and Change in Algebraic Thinking and Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Wu, Zhonghe

2017-01-01

The study investigated the effects of using the problem of the week in teaching (POWT) on teachers' learning and changes in knowledge and teaching skills, in algebraic thinking and algebra tasks, in the setting of a university mathematics education graduate program. The graduate students participated in learning POWT weekly in a mathematics…

Recoupling Lie algebra and universal ω-algebra

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Joyce, William P.

2004-01-01

We formulate the algebraic version of recoupling theory suitable for commutation quantization over any gradation. This gives a generalization of graded Lie algebra. Underlying this is the new notion of an ω-algebra defined in this paper. ω-algebra is a generalization of algebra that goes beyond nonassociativity. We construct the universal enveloping ω-algebra of recoupling Lie algebras and prove a generalized Poincare-Birkhoff-Witt theorem. As an example we consider the algebras over an arbitrary recoupling of Z n graded Heisenberg Lie algebra. Finally we uncover the usual coalgebra structure of a universal envelope and substantiate its Hopf structure

College Algebra in Context: A Project Incorporating Social Issues

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Michael T. Catalano

2010-01-01

Full Text Available This paper discusses the development of an innovative college algebra text designed for use in a data-driven, activity-oriented college algebra course, incorporating realistic problem situations emphasizing social and economic issues, including hunger and poverty, energy, and the environment. The course incorporates quantitative literacy themes, is informed by existing college algebra texts within the college algebra reform movement, and implements a collaborative pedagogical approach intended to provide future K-12 teachers an alternative model for the teaching of mathematics. The paper contains a short history of the project development phase, supported by an NSF grant (DUE #0442979, as well as the perceived role of the project in the college algebra reform and quantitative literacy movements. We make a short case for redefining the content of a college algebra course and acknowledging that for many students, it has become a terminal mathematics course. A description of the contents of the text, its relation to more traditional college algebra content, and four example student activities are included (on the topics of homelessness, the effects of airline deregulation, real estate versus savings as investment instruments, and the 2008 election. A summary of evaluation and assessment data from five years of pilot-testing, done primarily in conjuction with our NSF grant evaluation plan, is provided.

The Effects of Cooperative Learning on Student Achievement in Algebra I

Science.gov (United States)

Brandy, Travis D.

2013-01-01

It is a well-documented finding that high school students in schools across the nation, including California, fail to achieve at the proficient level in mathematics, based on standardized test scores. The purpose of this research study was to compare the findings of students taught using traditional instructional methodologies versus cooperative…

Relational thinking: The bridge between arithmetic and algebra

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ayhan Kızıltoprak

2017-09-01

Full Text Available The purpose of this study is to investigate the development of relational thinking skill, which is an important component of the transition from arithmetic to algebra, of 5th grade students. In the study, the qualitative research method of teaching experiment was used. The research data were collected from six secondary school 5th grade students by means of clinical interviews and teaching episodes. For observing the development of relational thinking, pre and post clinical interviews were also conducted before and after the eight-session teaching experiment. Qualitative analysis of the research data revealed that the relational thinking skills of all the students developed. It was also found that there was an interaction between the development of fundamental arithmetic concepts and relational thinking; that the students developed concepts related to arithmetical operations such as addend and sum; minuend, subtrahend and difference; multiplicator and product; and dividend, divisor and quotient. Moreover, students were able to use these concepts effectivelyalthough they failed to provide formal explanations about the relations between them. In addition, the students perceived the equal sign not only finding a result but also as a symbol used to establish a relation between operations and expressions.

An introduction to algebraic topology

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Rotman, Joseph J

1988-01-01

There is a canard that every textbook of algebraic topology either ends with the definition of the Klein bottle or is a personal communication to J. H. C. Whitehead. Of course, this is false, as a glance at the books of Hilton and Wylie, Maunder, Munkres, and Schubert reveals. Still, the canard does reflect some truth. Too often one finds too much generality and too little attention to details. There are two types of obstacle for the student learning algebraic topology. The first is the formidable array of new techniques (e. g. , most students know very little homological algebra); the second obstacle is that the basic defini­ tions have been so abstracted that their geometric or analytic origins have been obscured. I have tried to overcome these barriers. In the first instance, new definitions are introduced only when needed (e. g. , homology with coeffi­ cients and cohomology are deferred until after the Eilenberg-Steenrod axioms have been verified for the three homology theories we treat-singular, sim­ ...

Applied linear algebra

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Olver, Peter J

2018-01-01

This textbook develops the essential tools of linear algebra, with the goal of imparting technique alongside contextual understanding. Applications go hand-in-hand with theory, each reinforcing and explaining the other. This approach encourages students to develop not only the technical proficiency needed to go on to further study, but an appreciation for when, why, and how the tools of linear algebra can be used across modern applied mathematics. Providing an extensive treatment of essential topics such as Gaussian elimination, inner products and norms, and eigenvalues and singular values, this text can be used for an in-depth first course, or an application-driven second course in linear algebra. In this second edition, applications have been updated and expanded to include numerical methods, dynamical systems, data analysis, and signal processing, while the pedagogical flow of the core material has been improved. Throughout, the text emphasizes the conceptual connections between each application and the un...

CIME-CIRM course Rationality Problems in Algebraic Geometry

CERN Document Server

Pirola, Gian

2016-01-01

Providing an overview of the state of the art on rationality questions in algebraic geometry, this volume gives an update on the most recent developments. It offers a comprehensive introduction to this fascinating topic, and will certainly become an essential reference for anybody working in the field. Rationality problems are of fundamental importance both in algebra and algebraic geometry. Historically, rationality problems motivated significant developments in the theory of abelian integrals, Riemann surfaces and the Abel–Jacobi map, among other areas, and they have strong links with modern notions such as moduli spaces, Hodge theory, algebraic cycles and derived categories. This text is aimed at researchers and graduate students in algebraic geometry.

Elementary Algebra Connections to Precalculus

Science.gov (United States)

Lopez-Boada, Roberto; Daire, Sandra Arguelles

2013-01-01

This article examines the attitudes of some precalculus students to solve trigonometric and logarithmic equations and systems using the concepts of elementary algebra. With the goal of enticing the students to search for and use connections among mathematical topics, they are asked to solve equations or systems specifically designed to allow…

Development of abstract mathematical reasoning: the case of algebra.

Science.gov (United States)

Susac, Ana; Bubic, Andreja; Vrbanc, Andrija; Planinic, Maja

2014-01-01

Algebra typically represents the students' first encounter with abstract mathematical reasoning and it therefore causes significant difficulties for students who still reason concretely. The aim of the present study was to investigate the developmental trajectory of the students' ability to solve simple algebraic equations. 311 participants between the ages of 13 and 17 were given a computerized test of equation rearrangement. Equations consisted of an unknown and two other elements (numbers or letters), and the operations of multiplication/division. The obtained results showed that younger participants are less accurate and slower in solving equations with letters (symbols) than those with numbers. This difference disappeared for older participants (16-17 years), suggesting that they had reached an abstract reasoning level, at least for this simple task. A corresponding conclusion arises from the analysis of their strategies which suggests that younger participants mostly used concrete strategies such as inserting numbers, while older participants typically used more abstract, rule-based strategies. These results indicate that the development of algebraic thinking is a process which unfolds over a long period of time. In agreement with previous research, we can conclude that, on average, children at the age of 15-16 transition from using concrete to abstract strategies while solving the algebra problems addressed within the present study. A better understanding of the timing and speed of students' transition from concrete arithmetic reasoning to abstract algebraic reasoning might help in designing better curricula and teaching materials that would ease that transition.

Does School Choice Improve Student Performance?

OpenAIRE

Kaja Høiseth Brugård

2013-01-01

This paper studies the relationship between school choice and student performance for high school students in Norway. The analysis exploits both the fact that the degree of school choice formally differs between counties, and detailed information on travelling distances to high schools, which more closely reflects the students' actual school choice possibilities. Information on students' residence, high school location, and the degree of formal school choice is used to estimate the effect on ...

Representations of Lie algebras and partial differential equations

CERN Document Server

Xu, Xiaoping

2017-01-01

This book provides explicit representations of finite-dimensional simple Lie algebras, related partial differential equations, linear orthogonal algebraic codes, combinatorics and algebraic varieties, summarizing the author’s works and his joint works with his former students.  Further, it presents various oscillator generalizations of the classical representation theorem on harmonic polynomials, and highlights new functors from the representation category of a simple Lie algebra to that of another simple Lie algebra. Partial differential equations play a key role in solving certain representation problems. The weight matrices of the minimal and adjoint representations over the simple Lie algebras of types E and F are proved to generate ternary orthogonal linear codes with large minimal distances. New multi-variable hypergeometric functions related to the root systems of simple Lie algebras are introduced in connection with quantum many-body systems in one dimension. In addition, the book identifies certai...

Differential Hopf algebra structures on the universal enveloping algebra ofa Lie algebra

NARCIS (Netherlands)

N.W. van den Hijligenberg; R. Martini

1995-01-01

textabstractWe discuss a method to construct a De Rham complex (differential algebra) of Poincar'e-Birkhoff-Witt-type on the universal enveloping algebra of a Lie algebra $g$. We determine the cases in which this gives rise to a differential Hopf algebra that naturally extends the Hopf algebra

Numerical linear algebra theory and applications

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Beilina, Larisa; Karchevskii, Mikhail

2017-01-01

This book combines a solid theoretical background in linear algebra with practical algorithms for numerical solution of linear algebra problems. Developed from a number of courses taught repeatedly by the authors, the material covers topics like matrix algebra, theory for linear systems of equations, spectral theory, vector and matrix norms combined with main direct and iterative numerical methods, least squares problems, and eigen problems. Numerical algorithms illustrated by computer programs written in MATLAB® are also provided as supplementary material on SpringerLink to give the reader a better understanding of professional numerical software for the solution of real-life problems. Perfect for a one- or two-semester course on numerical linear algebra, matrix computation, and large sparse matrices, this text will interest students at the advanced undergraduate or graduate level.

The Yoneda algebra of a K2 algebra need not be another K2 algebra

OpenAIRE

Cassidy, T.; Phan, C.; Shelton, B.

2010-01-01

The Yoneda algebra of a Koszul algebra or a D-Koszul algebra is Koszul. K2 algebras are a natural generalization of Koszul algebras, and one would hope that the Yoneda algebra of a K2 algebra would be another K2 algebra. We show that this is not necessarily the case by constructing a monomial K2 algebra for which the corresponding Yoneda algebra is not K2.

Development and Initial Evaluation of the ClearSpeak Style for Automated Speaking of Algebra. Research Report No. RR-16-23

Science.gov (United States)

Frankel, Lois; Brownstein, Beth; Soiffer, Neil; Hansen, Eric

2016-01-01

The work described in this report is the first phase of a project to provide easy-to-use tools for authoring and rendering secondary-school algebra-level math expressions in synthesized speech that is useful for students with blindness or low vision. This report describes the initial development, software implementation, and evaluation of the…

Development and Initial Evaluation of the ClearSpeak Style for Automated Speaking of Algebra. Research Report. ETS RR-16-23

Science.gov (United States)

Frankel, Lois; Brownstein, Beth; Soiffer, Neil; Hansen, Eric

2016-01-01

The work described in this report is the first phase of a project to provide easy-to-use tools for authoring and rendering secondary-school algebra-level math expressions in synthesized speech that is useful for students with blindness or low vision. This report describes the initial development, software implementation, and evaluation of the…

Basic math and pre-algebra for dummies

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Zegarelli, Mark

2014-01-01

Tips for simplifying tricky basic math and pre-algebra operations Whether you're a student preparing to take algebra or a parent who wants or needs to brush up on basic math, this fun, friendly guide has the tools you need to get in gear. From positive, negative, and whole numbers to fractions, decimals, and percents, you'll build necessary math skills to tackle more advanced topics, such as imaginary numbers, variables, and algebraic equations. Explanations and practical examples that mirror today's teaching methodsRelevant cultural vernacular and referencesStandard For Dummies materials that

What ''Counts'' as Algebra in the Eyes of Preservice Elementary Teachers?

Science.gov (United States)

Stephens, Ana C.

2008-01-01

This study examined conceptions of algebra held by 30 preservice elementary teachers. In addition to exploring participants' general ''definitions'' of algebra, this study examined, in particular, their analyses of tasks designed to engage students in relational thinking or a deep understanding of the equal sign as well as student work on these…

Student nurses as school nurse extenders.

Science.gov (United States)

Rossman, Carol L; Dood, Florence V; Squires, Darcy A

2012-12-01

The severe underuse of school nurses leaves students with unaddressed health needs that impact their safety and learning ability. An undergraduate pediatric clinical focusing on nursing students and the role of a school nurse in an elementary school setting can be a unique approach to combining the needs of school children and educating student nurses. One school of nursing created such a project to help address these needs and collect data on the activities student nurses performed in school nurse role and their impact on student health. This project serves as both a practice improvement project and an innovation in pediatric clinical education. The purposes of this project were to quantify baccalaureate nursing student activities related to the school nurse role and to evaluate the results that have the potential to impact on student health in an urban elementary school. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Algebraic Generalization Strategies Used by Kuwaiti Pre-Service Teachers

Science.gov (United States)

Alajmi, Amal Hussain

2016-01-01

This study reports on the algebraic generalization strategies used by elementary and middle/high school pre-service mathematics teachers in Kuwait. They were presented with 9 tasks that involved linear, exponential, and quadratic situations. The results showed that these pre-service teachers had difficulty in generalizing algebraic rules in all 3…

Application of Computer Graphics to Graphing in Algebra and Trigonometry. Final Report.

Science.gov (United States)

Morris, J. Richard

This project was designed to improve the graphing competency of students in elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, and trigonometry courses at Virginia Commonwealth University. Computer graphics programs were designed using an Apple II Plus computer and implemented using Pascal. The software package is interactive and gives students control…

Cylindric-like algebras and algebraic logic

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Ferenczi, Miklós; Németi, István

2013-01-01

Algebraic logic is a subject in the interface between logic, algebra and geometry, it has strong connections with category theory and combinatorics. Tarski’s quest for finding structure in logic leads to cylindric-like algebras as studied in this book, they are among the main players in Tarskian algebraic logic. Cylindric algebra theory can be viewed in many ways:  as an algebraic form of definability theory, as a study of higher-dimensional relations, as an enrichment of Boolean Algebra theory, or, as logic in geometric form (“cylindric” in the name refers to geometric aspects). Cylindric-like algebras have a wide range of applications, in, e.g., natural language theory, data-base theory, stochastics, and even in relativity theory. The present volume, consisting of 18 survey papers, intends to give an overview of the main achievements and new research directions in the past 30 years, since the publication of the Henkin-Monk-Tarski monographs. It is dedicated to the memory of Leon Henkin.

Algebraic equations an introduction to the theories of Lagrange and Galois

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Dehn, Edgar

2004-01-01

Meticulous and complete, this presentation of Galois' theory of algebraic equations is geared toward upper-level undergraduate and graduate students. The theories of both Lagrange and Galois are developed in logical rather than historical form. And they are given a more thorough exposition than is customary. For this reason, and also because the author concentrates on concrete applications of algebraic theory, Algebraic Equations is an excellent supplementary text, offering students a concrete introduction to the abstract principles of Galois theory. Of further value are the many numerical ex

Study guide for college algebra and trigonometry

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Snow, James W; Shapiro, Arnold

1981-01-01

Study Guide for College Algebra and Trigonometry is a supplement material to the basic text, College Algebra and Trigonometry. It is written to assist the student in learning mathematics effectively.The book provides detailed solutions to exercises found in the text. Students are encouraged to use these solutions to find a way to approach a problem. The Study Guide and Solutions Manual consists of four major components: basic concepts that should be learned from each unit, what was learned upon completion of each unit, solutions to selected problems, and a short chapter quiz, including the ans

Students "Hacking" School Computer Systems

Science.gov (United States)

Stover, Del

2005-01-01

This article deals with students hacking school computer systems. School districts are getting tough with students "hacking" into school computers to change grades, poke through files, or just pit their high-tech skills against district security. Dozens of students have been prosecuted recently under state laws on identity theft and unauthorized…

Correlates of gender and achievement in introductory algebra based physics

Science.gov (United States)

Smith, Rachel Clara

The field of physics is heavily male dominated in America. Thus, half of the population of our country is underrepresented and underserved. The identification of factors that contribute to gender disparity in physics is necessary for educators to address the individual needs of students, and, in particular, the separate and specific needs of female students. In an effort to determine if any correlations could be established or strengthened between sex, gender identity, social network, algebra skill, scientific reasoning ability, and/or student attitude, a study was performed on a group of 82 students in an introductory algebra based physics course. The subjects each filled out a survey at the beginning of the semester of their first semester of algebra based physics. They filled out another survey at the end of that same semester. These surveys included physics content pretests and posttests, as well as questions about the students' habits, attitudes, and social networks. Correlates of posttest score were identified, in order of significance, as pretest score, emphasis on conceptual learning, preference for male friends, number of siblings (negatively correlated), motivation in physics, algebra score, and parents' combined education level. Number of siblings was also found to negatively correlate with, in order of significance, gender identity, preference for male friends, emphasis on conceptual learning, and motivation in physics. Preference for male friends was found to correlate with, in order of significance, emphasis on conceptual learning, gender identity, and algebra score. Also, gender identity was found to correlate with emphasis on conceptual learning, the strongest predictor of posttest score other than pretest score.

Regular algebra and finite machines

CERN Document Server

Conway, John Horton

2012-01-01

World-famous mathematician John H. Conway based this classic text on a 1966 course he taught at Cambridge University. Geared toward graduate students of mathematics, it will also prove a valuable guide to researchers and professional mathematicians.His topics cover Moore's theory of experiments, Kleene's theory of regular events and expressions, Kleene algebras, the differential calculus of events, factors and the factor matrix, and the theory of operators. Additional subjects include event classes and operator classes, some regulator algebras, context-free languages, communicative regular alg

Learning abstract algebra with ISETL

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Dubinsky, Ed

1994-01-01

Most students in abstract algebra classes have great difficulty making sense of what the instructor is saying. Moreover, this seems to remain true almost independently of the quality of the lecture. This book is based on the constructivist belief that, before students can make sense of any presentation of abstract mathematics, they need to be engaged in mental activities which will establish an experiential base for any future verbal explanation. No less, they need to have the opportunity to reflect on their activities. This approach is based on extensive theoretical and empirical studies as well as on the substantial experience of the authors in teaching astract algebra. The main source of activities in this course is computer constructions, specifically, small programs written in the mathlike programming language ISETL; the main tool for reflections is work in teams of 2-4 students, where the activities are discussed and debated. Because of the similarity of ISETL expressions to standard written mathematics...

Differential Hopf algebra structures on the universal enveloping algebra of a Lie algebra

NARCIS (Netherlands)

van den Hijligenberg, N.W.; van den Hijligenberg, N.W.; Martini, Ruud

1995-01-01

We discuss a method to construct a De Rham complex (differential algebra) of Poincar'e-Birkhoff-Witt-type on the universal enveloping algebra of a Lie algebra $g$. We determine the cases in which this gives rise to a differential Hopf algebra that naturally extends the Hopf algebra structure of

School Libraries and Student Learning: A Guide for School Leaders

Science.gov (United States)

Morris, Rebecca J.

2015-01-01

Innovative, well-designed school library programs can be critical resources for helping students meet high standards of college and career readiness. In "School Libraries and Student Learning", Rebecca J. Morris shows how school leaders can make the most of their school libraries to support ambitious student learning. She offers…

Fundamentals of linear algebra

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Dash, Rajani Ballav

2008-01-01

FUNDAMENTALS OF LINEAR ALGEBRA is a comprehensive Text Book, which can be used by students and teachers of All Indian Universities. The Text has easy, understandable form and covers all topics of UGC Curriculum. There are lots of worked out examples which helps the students in solving the problems without anybody's help. The Problem sets have been designed keeping in view of the questions asked in different examinations.

Linking Computer Algebra Systems and Paper-and-Pencil Techniques To Support the Teaching of Mathematics.

Science.gov (United States)

van Herwaarden, Onno A.; Gielen, Joseph L. W.

2002-01-01

Focuses on students showing a lack of conceptual insight while using computer algebra systems (CAS) in the setting of an elementary calculus and linear algebra course for first year university students in social sciences. The use of a computer algebra environment has been incorporated into a more traditional course but with special attention on…

Algebraic topology a primer

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Deo, Satya

2018-01-01

This book presents the first concepts of the topics in algebraic topology such as the general simplicial complexes, simplicial homology theory, fundamental groups, covering spaces and singular homology theory in greater detail. Originally published in 2003, this book has become one of the seminal books. Now, in the completely revised and enlarged edition, the book discusses the rapidly developing field of algebraic topology. Targeted to undergraduate and graduate students of mathematics, the prerequisite for this book is minimal knowledge of linear algebra, group theory and topological spaces. The book discusses about the relevant concepts and ideas in a very lucid manner, providing suitable motivations and illustrations. All relevant topics are covered, including the classical theorems like the Brouwer’s fixed point theorem, Lefschetz fixed point theorem, Borsuk-Ulam theorem, Brouwer’s separation theorem and the theorem on invariance of the domain. Most of the exercises are elementary, but sometimes chal...

Function algebras on finite sets basic course on many-valued logic and clone theory

CERN Document Server

Lau, Dietlinde

2006-01-01

Gives an introduction to the theory of function algebras. This book gives the general concepts of the Universal Algebra in order to familiarize the reader from the beginning on with the algebraic side of function algebras. It is a source on function algebras for students and researchers in mathematical logic and theoretical computer science.

The Usage of Programming Software “The Library of Electronic Visual Aids “Algebra 7-9” During Algebra Learning in 7-9 Forms.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

V.A. Kreknin

2008-06-01

Full Text Available The Programming software “The Library of Electronic Visual Aids “Algebra 7-9” for secondary institutions was developed for the computer support of algebra classes in 7-9 forms of secondary school. The present article describes the data about its basic characteristics features and possibilities.

Residues and duality for projective algebraic varieties

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Kunz, Ernst; Dickenstein, Alicia

2008-01-01

This book, which grew out of lectures by E. Kunz for students with a background in algebra and algebraic geometry, develops local and global duality theory in the special case of (possibly singular) algebraic varieties over algebraically closed base fields. It describes duality and residue theorems in terms of K�hler differential forms and their residues. The properties of residues are introduced via local cohomology. Special emphasis is given to the relation between residues to classical results of algebraic geometry and their generalizations. The contribution by A. Dickenstein gives applications of residues and duality to polynomial solutions of constant coefficient partial differential equations and to problems in interpolation and ideal membership. D. A. Cox explains toric residues and relates them to the earlier text. The book is intended as an introduction to more advanced treatments and further applications of the subject, to which numerous bibliographical hints are given.

A Method for Using Adjacency Matrices to Analyze the Connections Students Make within and between Concepts: The Case of Linear Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Selinski, Natalie E.; Rasmussen, Chris; Wawro, Megan; Zandieh, Michelle

2014-01-01

The central goals of most introductory linear algebra courses are to develop students' proficiency with matrix techniques, to promote their understanding of key concepts, and to increase their ability to make connections between concepts. In this article, we present an innovative method using adjacency matrices to analyze students' interpretation…

Further linear algebra

CERN Document Server

Blyth, T S

2002-01-01

Most of the introductory courses on linear algebra develop the basic theory of finite­ dimensional vector spaces, and in so doing relate the notion of a linear mapping to that of a matrix. Generally speaking, such courses culminate in the diagonalisation of certain matrices and the application of this process to various situations. Such is the case, for example, in our previous SUMS volume Basic Linear Algebra. The present text is a continuation of that volume, and has the objective of introducing the reader to more advanced properties of vector spaces and linear mappings, and consequently of matrices. For readers who are not familiar with the contents of Basic Linear Algebra we provide an introductory chapter that consists of a compact summary of the prerequisites for the present volume. In order to consolidate the student's understanding we have included a large num­ ber of illustrative and worked examples, as well as many exercises that are strategi­ cally placed throughout the text. Solutions to the ex...

Combinatorial Proofs and Algebraic Proofs

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Permanent link: https://www.ias.ac.in/article/fulltext/reso/018/07/0630-0645. Keywords. Combinatorial proof; algebraic proof; binomial identity; recurrence relation; composition; Fibonacci number; Fibonacci identity; Pascal triangle. Author Affiliations. Shailesh A Shirali1. Sahyadri School Tiwai Hill, Rajgurunagar Pune 410 ...

Functional Thinking Ways in Relation to Linear Function Tables of Elementary School Students

Science.gov (United States)

Tanisli, Dilek

2011-01-01

One of the basic components of algebraic thinking is functional thinking. Functional thinking involves focusing on the relationship between two (or more) varying quantities and such thinking facilitates the studies on both algebra and the notion of function. The development of functional thinking of students should start in the early grades and it…

From Rota-Baxter algebras to pre-Lie algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

An Huihui; Ba, Chengming

2008-01-01

Rota-Baxter algebras were introduced to solve some analytic and combinatorial problems and have appeared in many fields in mathematics and mathematical physics. Rota-Baxter algebras provide a construction of pre-Lie algebras from associative algebras. In this paper, we give all Rota-Baxter operators of weight 1 on complex associative algebras in dimension ≤3 and their corresponding pre-Lie algebras

The Effects of Online Homework on Achievement and Self-efficacy of College Algebra Students

OpenAIRE

Brewer, David Shane

2009-01-01

This study compared the effectiveness, in terms of mathematical achievement and mathematics self-efficacy, of online homework to textbook homework over an entire semester for 145 students enrolled in multiple sections of college algebra at a large community college. A quasi-experimental, posttest design was used to analyze the effect on mathematical achievement, as measured by a final exam. A pretest-posttest design was used to analyze the effect on mathematics self-efficacy, as measured by t...

Quartic Poisson algebras and quartic associative algebras and realizations as deformed oscillator algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Marquette, Ian

2013-01-01

We introduce the most general quartic Poisson algebra generated by a second and a fourth order integral of motion of a 2D superintegrable classical system. We obtain the corresponding quartic (associative) algebra for the quantum analog, extend Daskaloyannis construction obtained in context of quadratic algebras, and also obtain the realizations as deformed oscillator algebras for this quartic algebra. We obtain the Casimir operator and discuss how these realizations allow to obtain the finite-dimensional unitary irreducible representations of quartic algebras and obtain algebraically the degenerate energy spectrum of superintegrable systems. We apply the construction and the formula obtained for the structure function on a superintegrable system related to type I Laguerre exceptional orthogonal polynomials introduced recently

Algebra task sheets : grades pk-2

CERN Document Server

Reed, Nat

2009-01-01

For grades PK-2, our Common Core State Standards-based resource meets the algebraic concepts addressed by the NCTM standards and encourages the students to learn and review the concepts in unique ways. Each task sheet is organized around a central problem taken from real-life experiences of the students.

Lifestyles and psychosomatic symptoms among elementary school students and junior high school students.

Science.gov (United States)

Isshiki, Yuriko; Morimoto, Kanehisa

2004-05-01

To examine the relationship between lifestyles and psychosomatic symptoms in children, we conducted a self-administered questionnaire survey of elementary school students and junior high school students in Japan. We designed an original questionnaire to investigate the lifestyles and psychosomatic symptoms of children. In 1997, responses to the questionnaires were elicited from public elementary school fourth grade students (then aged 9-10) and public junior high school seventh grade students (then aged 12-13). The survey was repeated annually for three years as the students advanced through school. For both boys and girls, each cross-sectional analysis revealed a strong relationship between lifestyle behaviors and psychosomatic symptoms. Psychosomatic, symptoms scores varied according to daily hours of sleep, eating of breakfast, having strong likes and dislikes of food, bowel habits, and daily hours of television watching. Both boys and girls with "good" lifestyle, behaviors evaluated by the HPI (Health Practice Index) showed lower scores for psychosomatic symptoms. These findings show that the lifestyle behaviors of children are significantly associated with psychosomatic symptoms and suggest that poor lifestyle behaviors are likely to increase physical and psychological health risks.

Linear algebra and group theory for physicists

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Rao, K N Srinivasa

2006-01-01

Professor Srinivasa Rao's text on Linear Algebra and Group Theory is directed to undergraduate and graduate students who wish to acquire a solid theoretical foundation in these mathematical topics which find extensive use in physics. Based on courses delivered during Professor Srinivasa Rao's long career at the University of Mysore, this text is remarkable for its clear exposition of the subject. Advanced students will find a range of topics such as the Representation theory of Linear Associative Algebras, a complete analysis of Dirac and Kemmer algebras, Representations of the Symmetric group via Young Tableaux, a systematic derivation of the Crystallographic point groups, a comprehensive and unified discussion of the Rotation and Lorentz groups and their representations, and an introduction to Dynkin diagrams in the classification of Lie groups. In addition, the first few chapters on Elementary Group Theory and Vector Spaces also provide useful instructional material even at an introductory level. An author...

Mathematic Achievement of Canadian Private School Students

Science.gov (United States)

Cadigan, Francoise Jane; Wei, Yichun; Clifton, Rodney A.

2013-01-01

Very little Canadian research has examined the academic achievement of private school students. Data from The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2003 were used to examine the achievement of private school students. The study found that private school students outperformed their public school peers. In addition, the students'…

Yoneda algebras of almost Koszul algebras

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Abstract. Let k be an algebraically closed field, A a finite dimensional connected. (p,q)-Koszul self-injective algebra with p, q ≥ 2. In this paper, we prove that the. Yoneda algebra of A is isomorphic to a twisted polynomial algebra A![t; β] in one inde- terminate t of degree q +1 in which A! is the quadratic dual of A, β is an ...

Teacher Collaboration and Student Learning in a Professional Learning Community

Science.gov (United States)

Vaughan, Mary Elaine

2013-01-01

Researchers have endorsed teacher collaboration within a professional learning community (PLC) that is focused on student learning. Despite these research-based endorsements, several Algebra 1 teachers in a southeastern high school implemented components of a PLC with little or no results in student achievement. The purpose of this study was to…

Quandles an introduction to the algebra of knots

CERN Document Server

Elhamdadi, Mohamed

2015-01-01

From prehistory to the present, knots have been used for purposes both artistic and practical. The modern science of Knot Theory has ramifications for biochemistry and mathematical physics and is a rich source of research projects for undergraduate and graduate students and professionals alike. Quandles are essentially knots translated into algebra. This book provides an accessible introduction to quandle theory for readers with a background in linear algebra. Important concepts from topology and abstract algebra motivated by quandle theory are introduced along the way. With elementary self-co

Semi-algebraic function rings and reflectors of partially ordered rings

CERN Document Server

Schwartz, Niels

1999-01-01

The book lays algebraic foundations for real geometry through a systematic investigation of partially ordered rings of semi-algebraic functions. Real spectra serve as primary geometric objects, the maps between them are determined by rings of functions associated with the spectra. The many different possible choices for these rings of functions are studied via reflections of partially ordered rings. Readers should feel comfortable using basic algebraic and categorical concepts. As motivational background some familiarity with real geometry will be helpful. The book aims at researchers and graduate students with an interest in real algebra and geometry, ordered algebraic structures, topology and rings of continuous functions.

School climate: perceptual differences between students, parents, and school staff

Science.gov (United States)

Ramsey, Christine M.; Spira, Adam P.; Parisi, Jeanine M.; Rebok, George W.

2016-01-01

Research suggests that school climate can have a great impact on student, teacher, and school outcomes. However, it is often assessed as a summary measure, without taking into account multiple perspectives (student, teacher, parent) or examining subdimensions within the broader construct. In this study, we assessed school climate from the perspective of students, staff, and parents within a large, urban school district using multilevel modeling techniques to examine within- and between-school variance. After adjusting for school-level demographic characteristics, students reported worse perceptions of safety and connectedness compared to both parent and staff ratings (all p climate ratings within a school. Understanding how perceptions differ between informants can inform interventions to improve perceptions and prevent adverse outcomes. PMID:28642631

Quantum cluster algebras and quantum nilpotent algebras

Science.gov (United States)

Goodearl, Kenneth R.; Yakimov, Milen T.

2014-01-01

A major direction in the theory of cluster algebras is to construct (quantum) cluster algebra structures on the (quantized) coordinate rings of various families of varieties arising in Lie theory. We prove that all algebras in a very large axiomatically defined class of noncommutative algebras possess canonical quantum cluster algebra structures. Furthermore, they coincide with the corresponding upper quantum cluster algebras. We also establish analogs of these results for a large class of Poisson nilpotent algebras. Many important families of coordinate rings are subsumed in the class we are covering, which leads to a broad range of applications of the general results to the above-mentioned types of problems. As a consequence, we prove the Berenstein–Zelevinsky conjecture [Berenstein A, Zelevinsky A (2005) Adv Math 195:405–455] for the quantized coordinate rings of double Bruhat cells and construct quantum cluster algebra structures on all quantum unipotent groups, extending the theorem of Geiß et al. [Geiß C, et al. (2013) Selecta Math 19:337–397] for the case of symmetric Kac–Moody groups. Moreover, we prove that the upper cluster algebras of Berenstein et al. [Berenstein A, et al. (2005) Duke Math J 126:1–52] associated with double Bruhat cells coincide with the corresponding cluster algebras. PMID:24982197

The Algebra Teacher's Guide to Reteaching Essential Concepts and Skills 150 Mini-Lessons for Correcting Common Mistakes

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Muschla, Judith A; Muschla, Erin

2011-01-01

Easy to apply lessons for reteaching difficult algebra concepts Many students have trouble grasping algebra. In this book, bestselling authors Judith, Gary, and Erin Muschla offer help for math teachers who must instruct their students (even those who are struggling) about the complexities of algebra. In simple terms, the authors outline 150 classroom-tested lessons, focused on those concepts often most difficult to understand, in terms that are designed to help all students unravel the mysteries of algebra. Also included are reproducible worksheets that will assist teachers in reviewing and r

An introduction to algebraic geometry and algebraic groups

CERN Document Server

Geck, Meinolf

2003-01-01

An accessible text introducing algebraic geometries and algebraic groups at advanced undergraduate and early graduate level, this book develops the language of algebraic geometry from scratch and uses it to set up the theory of affine algebraic groups from first principles.Building on the background material from algebraic geometry and algebraic groups, the text provides an introduction to more advanced and specialised material. An example is the representation theory of finite groups of Lie type.The text covers the conjugacy of Borel subgroups and maximal tori, the theory of algebraic groups

An introduction to abstract algebra

CERN Document Server

Robinson, Derek JS

2003-01-01

This is a high level introduction to abstract algebra which is aimed at readers whose interests lie in mathematics and in the information and physical sciences. In addition to introducing the main concepts of modern algebra, the book contains numerous applications, which are intended to illustrate the concepts and to convince the reader of the utility and relevance of algebra today. In particular applications to Polya coloring theory, latin squares, Steiner systems and error correcting codes are described. Another feature of the book is that group theory and ring theory are carried further than is often done at this level. There is ample material here for a two semester course in abstract algebra. The importance of proof is stressed and rigorous proofs of almost all results are given. But care has been taken to lead the reader through the proofs by gentle stages. There are nearly 400 problems, of varying degrees of difficulty, to test the reader''s skill and progress. The book should be suitable for students ...

Efficacy of Online Algebra I for Credit Recovery for At-Risk Ninth Grade Students: Evidence from Year 1

Science.gov (United States)

Heppen, Jessica; Allensworth, Elaine; Walters, Kirk; Pareja, Amber Stitziel; Kurki, Anja; Nomi, Takako; Sorensen, Nicholas

2012-01-01

This study is an efficacy trial funded by a grant from the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) National Center for Education Research (NCER). Fifteen CPS high schools are receiving funding to implement two Algebra I credit recovery courses during the summer sessions of 2011 and 2012--one online and one face-to-face (f2f). These courses allow…

High School Algebra Students Busting the Myth about Mathematical Smartness: Counterstories to the Dominant Narrative “Get It Quick and Get It Right”

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Teresa K. Dunleavy

2018-04-01

Full Text Available This article continues to challenge the robust myth that mathematical smartness is exemplified in individuals who consistently complete mathematics problems quickly and accurately. In so doing, I present a set of counterstories from three students in one ninth-grade Algebra 1 classroom. These students described transformative experiences in their perceptions of mathematical smartness. Analysis of interviews revealed four themes about their perceptions of mathematical smartness, including: (1 consistently and unapologetically affording time and space to value multiple solution strategies, (2 belief in mathematical justification and explanation as the goal for demonstrating mastery of mathematical content, (3 valuing mathematically valid ideas from all class members, and (4 valuing collaborative problem solving as a way to help group members, distribute mathematical knowledge and orient students toward learning with one another. I found that their interpretations of mathematical smartness are counter to the still-dominant myths around speed and accuracy. While the four themes that emerged have been previously studied in the frame of teacher practices, this research provides needed additional empirical evidence of students’ voices describing what mathematical smartness can and should look like.

Variation in obesity among American secondary school students by school and school characteristics.

Science.gov (United States)

O'Malley, Patrick M; Johnston, Lloyd D; Delva, Jorge; Bachman, Jerald G; Schulenberg, John E

2007-10-01

Body mass index (BMI) is known to vary by individual characteristics, but little is known about whether BMI varies by school and by school characteristics. Nationally representative samples of United States schools and students are used to determine the extent to which BMI and percent of students at or above the 85th percentile of BMI vary by school and by school characteristics. Data from the 1991-2004 Monitoring the Future (MTF) study were analyzed in 2006 and 2007. A relatively small proportion of variance in BMI lies between schools; intraclass correlations are on the order of 3%. Still, this is sufficient variation to provide very different environments for students attending schools that are low versus high in average BMI. There is some modest variation by school type (public, Catholic private, non-Catholic private); school size (number of students in the sampled grade); region of the country; and population density. There is more variation as a function of school socioeconomic status (SES) and racial/ethnic composition of the school. School SES in particular was negatively associated with BMI levels, even after controlling individual-level SES and racial/ethnic status. The residual differences in BMI by school suggest that some characteristic of the school and/or community environment--perhaps cultural factors or peer role modeling or differences in school food, beverage, or physical education policies--facilitate obesity in schools with a high concentration of lower socioeconomic students, beyond individual-level factors.

A Structural Model of Algebra Achievement: Computational Fluency and Spatial Visualisation as Mediators of the Effect of Working Memory on Algebra Achievement

Science.gov (United States)

Tolar, Tammy Daun; Lederberg, Amy R.; Fletcher, Jack M.

2009-01-01

The goal of this study was to develop and evaluate a structural model of the relations among cognitive abilities and arithmetic skills and college students' algebra achievement. The model of algebra achievement was compared to a model of performance on the Scholastic Assessment in Mathematics (SAT-M) to determine whether the pattern of relations…

Lisa's Lemonade Stand: Exploring Algebraic Ideas.

Science.gov (United States)

Billings, Esther M. H.; Lakatos, Tracy

2003-01-01

Presents an activity, "Lisa's Lemonade Stand," that actively engages students in algebraic thinking as they analyze change by investigating relationships between variables and gain experience describing and representing these relationships graphically. (YDS)

School lunch waste among middle school students: nutrients consumed and costs.

Science.gov (United States)

Cohen, Juliana F W; Richardson, Scott; Austin, S Bryn; Economos, Christina D; Rimm, Eric B

2013-02-01

The National School Lunch Program has been guided by modest nutrient standards, and the palatability of meals, which drives consumption, receives inadequate attention. School food waste can have important nutritional and cost implications for policymakers, students, and their families. Nutrient losses and economic costs associated with school meal waste were examined. The study also assessed if school foods served were valid proxies for foods consumed by students. Plate waste measurements were collected from middle school students in Boston attending two Chef Initiative schools (n=1609) and two control schools (n=1440) during a 2-year pilot study (2007-2009) in which a professional chef trained cafeteria staff to make healthier school meals. The costs associated with food waste were calculated and the percentage of foods consumed was compared with a gold standard of 85% consumption. Analyses were conducted in 2010-2011. Overall, students consumed less than the required/recommended levels of nutrients. An estimated $432,349 of food (26.1% of the total food budget) was discarded by middle school students annually at lunch in these Boston middle schools. For most meal components, substantially less than 85% was consumed. There is substantial food waste among middle school students in Boston. Overall, students' nutrient consumption levels were below school meal standards, and foods served were not valid proxies for foods consumed. The costs associated with discarded foods are high; if translated nationally for school lunches, roughly $1,238,846,400 annually is wasted. Students might benefit if additional focus were given to the quality and palatability of school meals. Copyright © 2013 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Differential Hopf algebra structures on the Universal Enveloping Algebra of a Lie Algebra

NARCIS (Netherlands)

van den Hijligenberg, N.W.; van den Hijligenberg, N.; Martini, Ruud

1995-01-01

We discuss a method to construct a De Rham complex (differential algebra) of Poincaré–Birkhoff–Witt type on the universal enveloping algebra of a Lie algebra g. We determine the cases in which this gives rise to a differential Hopf algebra that naturally extends the Hopf algebrastructure of U(g).

The Role Of Tasks That Supports Making Algebraic Generalisation In Forming 7th Grade Students’ Ability To Generalise

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Rukiye Gökce

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Number patterns play an important role in the formation of mathematical concepts, as mathematics is treated as a science of patterns and relations, and as it is important to learn mathematics with generalization. With the reform in the middle school mathematics curriculum, the concept of pattern entering the curriculum has brought some learning difficulties in the context of generalization In this study the potential of tasks which are developed by considering student difficulties reported in the literature, algebraic generalization process and task design principles to shape generalization skills is examined. The study was conducted with thirteen students in five weeks (16 hours. Data were collected through notes, video and audio recordings and observations held during the implementation process. The data were analyzed qualitatively. As a result of the research; it has been determined that tasks can play an important role in strategy and notation use, algebraic generalization and effective use of visual models in finding a rule.

The relation between quantum W algebras and Lie algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boer, J. de; Tjin, T.

1994-01-01

By quantizing the generalized Drinfeld-Sokolov reduction scheme for arbitrary sl 2 embeddings we show that a large set W of quantum W algebras can be viewed as (BRST) cohomologies of affine Lie algebras. The set W contains many known W algebras such as W N and W 3 (2) . Our formalism yields a completely algorithmic method for calculating the W algebra generators and their operator product expansions, replacing the cumbersome construction of W algebras as commutants of screening operators. By generalizing and quantizing the Miura transformation we show that any W algebra in W can be embedded into the universal enveloping algebra of a semisimple affine Lie algebra which is, up to shifts in level, isomorphic to a subalgebra of the original affine algebra. Therefore any realization of this semisimple affine Lie algebra leads to a realization of the W algebra. In particular, one obtains in this way a general and explicit method for constructing the free field realizations and Fock resolutions for all algebras in W. Some examples are explicitly worked out. (orig.)

Student performance and attitudes in a collaborative and flipped linear algebra course

Science.gov (United States)

Murphy, Julia; Chang, Jen-Mei; Suaray, Kagba

2016-07-01

Flipped learning is gaining traction in K-12 for enhancing students' problem-solving skills at an early age; however, there is relatively little large-scale research showing its effectiveness in promoting better learning outcomes in higher education, especially in mathematics classes. In this study, we examined the data compiled from both quantitative and qualitative measures such as item scores on a common final and attitude survey results between a flipped and a traditional Introductory Linear Algebra class taught by two individual instructors at a state university in California in Fall 2013. Students in the flipped class were asked to watch short video lectures made by the instructor and complete a short online quiz prior to each class attendance. The class time was completely devoted to problem solving in group settings where students were prompted to communicate their reasoning with proper mathematical terms and structured sentences verbally and in writing. Examination of the quality and depth of student responses from the common final exam showed that students in the flipped class produced more comprehensive and well-explained responses to the questions that required reasoning, creating examples, and more complex use of mathematical objects. Furthermore, students in the flipped class performed superiorly in the overall comprehension of the content with a 21% increase in the median final exam score. Overall, students felt more confident about their ability to learn mathematics independently, showed better retention of materials over time, and enjoyed the flipped experience.

2-Local derivations on matrix algebras over semi-prime Banach algebras and on AW*-algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ayupov, Shavkat; Kudaybergenov, Karimbergen

2016-01-01

The paper is devoted to 2-local derivations on matrix algebras over unital semi-prime Banach algebras. For a unital semi-prime Banach algebra A with the inner derivation property we prove that any 2-local derivation on the algebra M 2 n (A), n ≥ 2, is a derivation. We apply this result to AW*-algebras and show that any 2-local derivation on an arbitrary AW*-algebra is a derivation. (paper)

Problems and proofs in numbers and algebra

CERN Document Server

Millman, Richard S; Kahn, Eric Brendan

2015-01-01

Designed to facilitate the transition from undergraduate calculus and differential equations to learning about proofs, this book helps students develop the rigorous mathematical reasoning needed for advanced courses in analysis, abstract algebra, and more. Students will focus on both how to prove theorems and solve problem sets in-depth; that is, where multiple steps are needed to prove or solve. This proof technique is developed by examining two specific content themes and their applications in-depth: number theory and algebra. This choice of content themes enables students to develop an understanding of proof technique in the context of topics with which they are already familiar, as well as reinforcing natural and conceptual understandings of mathematical methods and styles. The key to the text is its interesting and intriguing problems, exercises, theorems, and proofs, showing how students will transition from the usual, more routine calculus to abstraction while also learning how to “prove” or “sol...

Moduli spaces in algebraic geometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Goettsche, L.

2000-01-01

This volume of the new series of lecture notes of the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics contains the lecture notes of the School on Algebraic Geometry which took place at the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics from 26 July to 13 August 1999. The school consisted of 2 weeks of lecture courses and one week of conference. The topic of the school was moduli spaces. More specifically the lectures were divided into three subtopics: principal bundles on Riemann surfaces, moduli spaces of vector bundles and sheaves on projective varieties, and moduli spaces of curves

Matrix algebra theory, computations and applications in statistics

CERN Document Server

Gentle, James E

2017-01-01

This textbook for graduate and advanced undergraduate students presents the theory of matrix algebra for statistical applications, explores various types of matrices encountered in statistics, and covers numerical linear algebra. Matrix algebra is one of the most important areas of mathematics in data science and in statistical theory, and the second edition of this very popular textbook provides essential updates and comprehensive coverage on critical topics in mathematics in data science and in statistical theory. Part I offers a self-contained description of relevant aspects of the theory of matrix algebra for applications in statistics. It begins with fundamental concepts of vectors and vector spaces; covers basic algebraic properties of matrices and analytic properties of vectors and matrices in multivariate calculus; and concludes with a discussion on operations on matrices in solutions of linear systems and in eigenanalysis. Part II considers various types of matrices encountered in statistics, such as...

Measuring the Readability of Elementary Algebra Using the Cloze Technique.

Science.gov (United States)

Kulm, Gerald

The relationship to readability of ten variables characterizing structural properties of mathematical prose was investigated in elementary algebra textbooks. Readability was measured by algebra student's responses to two forms of cloze tests. Linear and currilinear correlations were calculated between each structural variable and the cloze test.…

Quantum cluster algebra structures on quantum nilpotent algebras

CERN Document Server

Goodearl, K R

2017-01-01

All algebras in a very large, axiomatically defined class of quantum nilpotent algebras are proved to possess quantum cluster algebra structures under mild conditions. Furthermore, it is shown that these quantum cluster algebras always equal the corresponding upper quantum cluster algebras. Previous approaches to these problems for the construction of (quantum) cluster algebra structures on (quantized) coordinate rings arising in Lie theory were done on a case by case basis relying on the combinatorics of each concrete family. The results of the paper have a broad range of applications to these problems, including the construction of quantum cluster algebra structures on quantum unipotent groups and quantum double Bruhat cells (the Berenstein-Zelevinsky conjecture), and treat these problems from a unified perspective. All such applications also establish equality between the constructed quantum cluster algebras and their upper counterparts.

Working While in Middle School: Student Perceptions of School Climate & Connectedness

Science.gov (United States)

Miller, Sabrena

2016-01-01

Does working during the school year result in lowered perceptions of school climate and connectedness for middle school students? According to outcomes from a Rocky Mountain Region School District's (RMRSD) school climate survey, 20% of their middle school student population works during the school year. Existing literature on youth employment…

Topology of real algebraic varieties and related topics

CERN Document Server

Kharlamov, V M; Polotovskiĭ, G M; Viro, Oleg Ya

1996-01-01

This volume is dedicated to the memory of the Russian mathematician D. A. Gudkov. It contains papers written by his friends, students, and collaborators and is devoted mainly to the areas where D. A. Gudkov made important contributions. The main topic is the topology of real algebraic varieties. Several papers include new results on the topology of real plane algebraic curves (the Hilbert 16th problem).

School superintendents' perceptions of schools assisting students in obtaining public health insurance.

Science.gov (United States)

Rickard, Megan L; Price, James H; Telljohann, Susan K; Dake, Joseph A; Fink, Brian N

2011-12-01

Superintendents' perceptions regarding the effect of health insurance status on academics, the role schools should play in the process of obtaining health insurance, and the benefits/barriers to assisting students in enrolling in health insurance were surveyed. Superintendents' basic knowledge of health insurance, the link between health and learning, and specific school system practices for assisting students were also examined. A 4-page questionnaire was sent to a national random sample of public school superintendents using a 4-wave postal mailing. Only 19% of school districts assessed the health insurance status of students. School districts' assistance in helping enroll students in health insurance was assessed using Stages of Change theory; 36% of superintendents' school districts were in the action or maintenance stages. The schools most often made health insurance materials available to parents (53%). The perceived benefits identified by more than 80% of superintendents were to keep students healthier, reduce the number of students with untreated health problems, reduce school absenteeism, and improvement of students' attention/concentration during school. The 2 most common perceived barriers identified by at least 50% of superintendents were not having enough staff or financial resources. Most superintendents believed schools should play a role in helping students obtain health insurance, but the specific role was unclear. Three fourths of superintendents indicated overwhelmingly positive beliefs regarding the effects of health insurance status on students' health and academic outcomes. School personnel and public policy makers can use the results to support collaboration in getting students enrolled in health insurance. © 2011, American School Health Association.

Universal algebra

CERN Document Server

Grätzer, George

1979-01-01

Universal Algebra, heralded as ". . . the standard reference in a field notorious for the lack of standardization . . .," has become the most authoritative, consistently relied on text in a field with applications in other branches of algebra and other fields such as combinatorics, geometry, and computer science. Each chapter is followed by an extensive list of exercises and problems. The "state of the art" account also includes new appendices (with contributions from B. Jónsson, R. Quackenbush, W. Taylor, and G. Wenzel) and a well-selected additional bibliography of over 1250 papers and books which makes this a fine work for students, instructors, and researchers in the field. "This book will certainly be, in the years to come, the basic reference to the subject." --- The American Mathematical Monthly (First Edition) "In this reviewer's opinion [the author] has more than succeeded in his aim. The problems at the end of each chapter are well-chosen; there are more than 650 of them. The book is especially sui...

The same teacher, the same curriculum materials, different schools: What is the enacted curriculum?

Science.gov (United States)

Eisenmann, Tammy

This research examines how the same teacher implements the same curriculum material in two different schools. The aim of the study is to examine how the enacted algebra curriculum may change when the same teacher enacts the same written curriculum materials in different classes. This research comprises two case studies. Each case examines one teacher who taught the beginning of the mathematical topic "equivalent algebraic expressions", to two 7th grade classes from different schools. The same textbook was used in all four classes. The data collected includes: 1. Observations: 25930 lessons throughout the school year in each of the participating classes; Other mathematics classes in each of the schools; Other non9mathematics classes in the participating classes. A total of 130 lessons were observed. The observations included continuous observations of the teaching of "equivalent algebraic expressions" (15919 lessons) in each class. These observations are the main data source of this research; 2. Interviews with the teachers; 3. Informal conversations; and 4. Field notes. The data was analyzed both through quantitative and qualitative analysis. The research focuses on the following two aspects of the enacted curriculum: implementation of the recommendation that appeared in the curriculum materials and the types of algebraic activity that the students were exposed to during the teaching of the mathematical topic. Kieran's framework (Kieran, 1996, 2004), which distinguishes between three types of algebraic activities 9 generational, transformational and global/meta9level 9 was employed for the examination of the algebraic activities. Comparisons were made for two aspects of the research: between the enacted curriculum in each of the classes and the curriculum materials; and between each of the classes taught by same teacher. It was found that in case study 1, that examined teacher Sara and schools Carmel and Tavor -- most of the recommendations for instruction that

Addressing Student Burnout: What Medical Schools Can Learn From Business Schools.

Science.gov (United States)

Pathipati, Akhilesh S; Cassel, Christine K

2018-03-13

Although they enter school with enthusiasm for a career in medicine, medical students in the United States subsequently report high levels of burnout and disillusionment. As medical school leaders consider how to address this problem, they can look to business schools as one source of inspiration. In this Commentary, the authors argue-based on their collective experience in both medical and business education-that medical schools can draw three lessons from business schools that can help reinvigorate students. First, medical schools should offer more opportunities and dedicated time for creative work. Engaging with diverse challenges promotes intellectual curiosity and can help students maintain perspective. Second, schools should provide more explicit training in resiliency and the management of stressful situations. Many business programs include formal training in how to cope with conflict and how to make high-stakes decisions whereas medical students are typically expected to learn those skills on the job. Finally, medical schools should provide better guidance on practical career considerations like income, lifestyle, and financial skills. Whether in medicine or business, students benefit from open discussions about their personal and professional goals. Medical schools must ensure students have an outlet for those conversations.

Quadratic algebras

CERN Document Server

Polishchuk, Alexander

2005-01-01

Quadratic algebras, i.e., algebras defined by quadratic relations, often occur in various areas of mathematics. One of the main problems in the study of these (and similarly defined) algebras is how to control their size. A central notion in solving this problem is the notion of a Koszul algebra, which was introduced in 1970 by S. Priddy and then appeared in many areas of mathematics, such as algebraic geometry, representation theory, noncommutative geometry, K-theory, number theory, and noncommutative linear algebra. The book offers a coherent exposition of the theory of quadratic and Koszul algebras, including various definitions of Koszulness, duality theory, Poincar�-Birkhoff-Witt-type theorems for Koszul algebras, and the Koszul deformation principle. In the concluding chapter of the book, they explain a surprising connection between Koszul algebras and one-dependent discrete-time stochastic processes.

Regularity of C*-algebras and central sequence algebras

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Christensen, Martin S.

The main topic of this thesis is regularity properties of C*-algebras and how these regularity properties are re ected in their associated central sequence algebras. The thesis consists of an introduction followed by four papers [A], [B], [C], [D]. In [A], we show that for the class of simple...... Villadsen algebra of either the rst type with seed space a nite dimensional CW complex, or the second type, tensorial absorption of the Jiang-Su algebra is characterized by the absence of characters on the central sequence algebra. Additionally, in a joint appendix with Joan Bosa, we show that the Villadsen...... algebra of the second type with innite stable rank fails the corona factorization property. In [B], we consider the class of separable C*-algebras which do not admit characters on their central sequence algebra, and show that it has nice permanence properties. We also introduce a new divisibility property...

Experts Question California's Algebra Edict

Science.gov (United States)

Cavanagh, Sean

2008-01-01

Business leaders from important sectors of the American economy have been urging schools to set higher standards in math and science--and California officials, in mandating that 8th graders be tested in introductory algebra, have responded with one of the highest such standards in the land. Still, many California educators and school…

Real division algebras and other algebras motivated by physics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Benkart, G.; Osborn, J.M.

1981-01-01

In this survey we discuss several general techniques which have been productive in the study of real division algebras, flexible Lie-admissible algebras, and other nonassociative algebras, and we summarize results obtained using these methods. The principal method involved in this work is to view an algebra A as a module for a semisimple Lie algebra of derivations of A and to use representation theory to study products in A. In the case of real division algebras, we also discuss the use of isotopy and the use of a generalized Peirce decomposition. Most of the work summarized here has appeared in more detail in various other papers. The exceptions are results on a class of algebras of dimension 15, motivated by physics, which admit the Lie algebra sl(3) as an algebra of derivations

The Algebra Artist

Science.gov (United States)

Beigie, Darin

2014-01-01

Most people who are attracted to STEM-related fields are drawn not by a desire to take mathematics tests but to create things. The opportunity to create an algebra drawing gives students a sense of ownership and adventure that taps into the same sort of energy that leads a young person to get lost in reading a good book, building with Legos®,…

Operator algebras and topology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Schick, T.

2002-01-01

These notes, based on three lectures on operator algebras and topology at the 'School on High Dimensional Manifold Theory' at the ICTP in Trieste, introduce a new set of tools to high dimensional manifold theory, namely techniques coming from the theory of operator algebras, in particular C*-algebras. These are extensively studied in their own right. We will focus on the basic definitions and properties, and on their relevance to the geometry and topology of manifolds. A central pillar of work in the theory of C*-algebras is the Baum-Connes conjecture. This is an isomorphism conjecture, as discussed in the talks of Luck, but with a certain special flavor. Nevertheless, it has important direct applications to the topology of manifolds, it implies e.g. the Novikov conjecture. In the first chapter, the Baum-Connes conjecture will be explained and put into our context. Another application of the Baum-Connes conjecture is to the positive scalar curvature question. This will be discussed by Stephan Stolz. It implies the so-called 'stable Gromov-Lawson-Rosenberg conjecture'. The unstable version of this conjecture said that, given a closed spin manifold M, a certain obstruction, living in a certain (topological) K-theory group, vanishes if and only M admits a Riemannian metric with positive scalar curvature. It turns out that this is wrong, and counterexamples will be presented in the second chapter. The third chapter introduces another set of invariants, also using operator algebra techniques, namely L 2 -cohomology, L 2 -Betti numbers and other L 2 -invariants. These invariants, their basic properties, and the central questions about them, are introduced in the third chapter. (author)

Topics in algebra and analysis preparing for the mathematical olympiad

CERN Document Server

Bulajich Manfrino, Radmila; Valdez Delgado, Rogelio

2015-01-01

The techniques presented here are useful for solving mathematical contest problems in algebra and analysis. Most of the examples and exercises that appear in the book originate from mathematical Olympiad competitions around the world. In the first four chapters the authors cover material for competitions at high school level. The level advances with the chapters. The topics explored include polynomials, functional equations, sequences and an elementary treatment of complex numbers. The final chapters provide a comprehensive list of problems posed at national and international contests in recent years, and solutions to all exercises and problems presented in the book. It helps students in preparing for national and international mathematical contests form high school level to more advanced competitions and will also be useful for their first year of mathematical studies at the university. It will be of interest to teachers in college and university level, and trainers of the mathematical Olympiads.

Authoritative School Climate and High School Student Risk Behavior: A Cross-sectional Multi-level Analysis of Student Self-Reports.

Science.gov (United States)

Cornell, Dewey; Huang, Francis

2016-11-01

Many adolescents engage in risk behaviors such as substance use and aggression that jeopardize their healthy development. This study tested the hypothesis that an authoritative school climate characterized by strict but fair discipline and supportive teacher-student relationships is conducive to lower risk behavior for high school students. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to analyze cross-sectional, student-report survey data from a statewide sample of 47,888 students (50.6 % female) in 319 high schools. The students included ninth (26.6 %), tenth (25.5 %), eleventh (24.1 %) and twelfth (23.8 %) grade with a racial/ethnic breakdown of 52.2 % White, 18.0 % Black, 13.1 % Hispanic, 5.9 % Asian, and 10.8 % reporting another or two or more race/ethnicities. Schools with an authoritative school climate had lower levels of student-reported alcohol and marijuana use; bullying, fighting, and weapon carrying at school; interest in gang membership; and suicidal thoughts and behavior. These results controlled for demographic variables of student gender, race, grade, and parent education level as well as school size, percentage of minority students, and percentage of low income students. Overall, these findings add new evidence that an authoritative school climate is associated with positive student outcomes.

Student and school factors associated with school suspension: A multilevel analysis of students in Victoria, Australia and Washington State, United States

Science.gov (United States)

Sheryl, A. Hemphill; Stephanie, M. Plenty; Herrenkohl, Todd I.; Toumbourou, John W.; Catalano, Richard F.

2014-01-01

One of the common issues schools face is how best to handle challenging student behaviors such as violent behavior, antisocial behavior, bullying, school rule violations, and interrupting other students’ learning. School suspension may be used to remove students engaging in challenging behaviors from the school for a period of time. However, the act of suspending students from school may worsen rather than improve their behavior. Research shows that suspensions predict a range of student outcomes, including crime, delinquency, and drug use. It is therefore crucial to understand the factors associated with the use of school suspension, particularly in sites with different policy approaches to problem behaviors. This paper draws on data from state-representative samples of 3,129 Grade 7 and 9 students in Washington State, United States and Victoria, Australia sampled in 2002. Multilevel modeling examined student and school level factors associated with student-reported school suspension. Results showed that both student (being male, previous student antisocial and violent behavior, rebelliousness, academic failure) and school (socioeconomic status of the school, aggregate measures of low school commitment) level factors were associated with school suspension and that the factors related to suspension were similar in the two states. The implications of the findings for effective school behavior management policy are that, rather than focusing only on the student, both student and school level factors need to be addressed to reduce the rates of school suspension. PMID:24860205

Hom-Novikov algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yau, Donald

2011-01-01

We study a twisted generalization of Novikov algebras, called Hom-Novikov algebras, in which the two defining identities are twisted by a linear map. It is shown that Hom-Novikov algebras can be obtained from Novikov algebras by twisting along any algebra endomorphism. All algebra endomorphisms on complex Novikov algebras of dimensions 2 or 3 are computed, and their associated Hom-Novikov algebras are described explicitly. Another class of Hom-Novikov algebras is constructed from Hom-commutative algebras together with a derivation, generalizing a construction due to Dorfman and Gel'fand. Two other classes of Hom-Novikov algebras are constructed from Hom-Lie algebras together with a suitable linear endomorphism, generalizing a construction due to Bai and Meng.

Examining Opportunity-to-Learn and Success in High School Mathematics Performance in California under NCLB

Science.gov (United States)

Gavrilovic, Daniel Miodrag

2013-01-01

The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 has put many schools under a lot of pressure to meet its high demands. In this quantitative study, the effects that the NCLB act has had on students' opportunity to learn (OTL) and Subject Level Success (SS) from 2004 to 2012 in 9th, 10th, and 11th grade math coursework (Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and…

Changes in Pre-Service Teachers' Algebraic Misconceptions by Using Computer-Assisted Instruction

Science.gov (United States)

Lin, ByCheng-Yao; Ko, Yi-Yin; Kuo, Yu-Chun

2014-01-01

In order to carry out current reforms regarding algebra and technology in elementary school mathematics successfully, pre-service elementary mathematics teachers must be equipped with adequate understandings of algebraic concepts and self-confidence in using computers for their future teaching. This paper examines the differences in preservice…

Mathematical modelling in engineering: A proposal to introduce linear algebra concepts

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Andrea Dorila Cárcamo

2016-03-01

Full Text Available The modern dynamic world requires that basic science courses for engineering, including linear algebra, emphasize the development of mathematical abilities primarily associated with modelling and interpreting, which aren´t limited only to calculus abilities. Considering this, an instructional design was elaborated based on mathematic modelling and emerging heuristic models for the construction of specific linear algebra concepts:  span and spanning set. This was applied to first year engineering students. Results suggest that this type of instructional design contributes to the construction of these mathematical concepts and can also favour first year engineering students understanding of key linear algebra concepts and potentiate the development of higher order skills.

Linear algebra meets Lie algebra: the Kostant-Wallach theory

OpenAIRE

Shomron, Noam; Parlett, Beresford N.

2008-01-01

In two languages, Linear Algebra and Lie Algebra, we describe the results of Kostant and Wallach on the fibre of matrices with prescribed eigenvalues of all leading principal submatrices. In addition, we present a brief introduction to basic notions in Algebraic Geometry, Integrable Systems, and Lie Algebra aimed at specialists in Linear Algebra.

School violence and bullying among sexual minority high school students, 2009-2011.

Science.gov (United States)

O'Malley Olsen, Emily; Kann, Laura; Vivolo-Kantor, Alana; Kinchen, Steve; McManus, Tim

2014-09-01

School-based victimization has short- and long-term implications for the health and academic lives of sexual minority students. This analysis assessed the prevalence and relative risk of school violence and bullying among sexual minority and heterosexual high school students. Youth Risk Behavior Survey data from 10 states and 10 large urban school districts that assessed sexual identity and had weighted data in the 2009 and/or 2011 cycle were combined to create two large population-based data sets, one containing state data and one containing district data. Prevalence of physical fighting, being threatened or injured with a weapon, weapon carrying, and being bullied on school property and not going to school because of safety concerns was calculated. Associations between these behaviors and sexual identity were identified. In the state data, sexual minority male students were at greater risk for being threatened or injured with a weapon, not going to school because of safety concerns and being bullied than heterosexual male students. Sexual minority female students were at greater risk than heterosexual female students for all five behaviors. In the district data, with one exception, sexual minority male and female students were at greater risk for all five behaviors than heterosexual students. Sexual minority students still routinely experience more school victimization than their heterosexual counterparts. The implementation of comprehensive, evidence-based programs and policies has the ability to reduce school violence and bullying, especially among sexual minority students. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Middle school student perceptions of school lunch following revised federal school meal guidelines

Science.gov (United States)

This study assessed student perceptions of school meals under the new federal meal patterns for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). Student feedback is instrumental in developing strategies to increase and maintain NSLP participation, satisfaction, and ultimately provide students with a health...

School Related Alienation: Perceptions of Secondary School Students.

Science.gov (United States)

Kunkel, Richard C.; And Others

Responses to questionnaires administered to 10,000 senior high school students to ascertain their feelings of alienation as related to their schools are presented. The questionnaire items concerned: School as an Institution, The School as Teacher, Authority--Autonomy, and Parental Interest in School. The findings that resulted from the…

Adjamagbo Determinant and Serre conjecture for linear groups over Weyl algebras

OpenAIRE

Adjamagbo, Kossivi

2008-01-01

Thanks to the theory of determinants over an Ore domain, also called Adjamagbo determinant by the Russian school of non commutative algebra, we extend to any Weyl algebra over a field of characteristic zero Suslin theorem solving what Suslin himself called the $K_1$-analogue of the well-known Serre Conjecture and asserting that for any integer $n$ greater than 2, any $n$ by $n$ matrix with coefficients in any algebra of polynomials over a field and with determinant one is the product of eleme...

Students' approaches to medical school choice: relationship with students' characteristics and motivation.

Science.gov (United States)

Wouters, Anouk; Croiset, Gerda; Schripsema, Nienke R; Cohen-Schotanus, Janke; Spaai, Gerard W G; Hulsman, Robert L; Kusurkar, Rashmi A

2017-06-12

The aim was to examine main reasons for students' medical school choice and their relationship with students' characteristics and motivation during the students' medical study. In this multisite cross-sectional study, all Year-1 and Year-4 students who had participated in a selection procedure in one of the three Dutch medical schools included in the study were invited to complete an online survey comprising personal data, their main reason for medical school choice and standard, validated questionnaires to measure their strength of motivation (Strength of Motivation for Medical School-Revised) and autonomous and controlled type of motivation (Academic Self-regulation Questionnaire). Four hundred seventy-eight students participated. We performed frequency analyses on the reasons for medical school choice and regression analyses and ANCOVAs to study their associations with students' characteristics and motivation during their medical study. Students indicated 'city' (Year-1: 24.7%, n=75 and Year-4: 36.0%, n=52) and 'selection procedure' (Year-1: 56.9%, n=173 and Year-4: 46.9%, n=68) as the main reasons for their medical school choice. The main reasons were associated with gender, age, being a first-generation university student, ethnic background and medical school, and no significant associations were found between the main reasons and the strength and type of motivation during the students' medical study. Most students had based their medical school choice on the selection procedure. If medical schools desire to achieve a good student-curriculum fit and attract a diverse student population aligning the selection procedure with the curriculum and taking into account various students' different approaches is important.

Extended Virasoro algebra and algebra of area preserving diffeomorphisms

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Arakelyan, T.A.

1990-01-01

The algebra of area preserving diffeomorphism plays an important role in the theory of relativistic membranes. It is pointed out that the relation between this algebra and the extended Virasoro algebra associated with the generalized Kac-Moody algebras G(T 2 ). The highest weight representation of these infinite-dimensional algebras as well as of their subalgebras is studied. 5 refs

APPLYING THE APOS THEORY TO IMPROVE STUDENTS ABILITY TO PROVE IN ELEMENTARY ABSTRACT ALGEBRA

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

I Made Arnawa

2007-04-01

Full Text Available This study is a quasi-experimental nonrandomized pretest-posttest control group design. The experiment group is treated by APOS theory instruction (APOS,that implements four characteristics of APOS theory, (1 mathematical knowledge was constructed through mental construction: actions, processes, objects, and organizing these in schemas, (2 using computer, (3 using cooperative learning groups, and (4 using ACE teaching cycle (activities, class discussion, and exercise. The control group is treated by conventional/traditional mathematics instruction (TRAD. The main purpose of this study is to analyze about achievement in proof. 180 students from two different universities (two classes at the Department of Mathematics UNAND and two classes atthe Department of Mathematics Education UNP PADANG were engaged as the research subjects. Based on the result of data analysis, the main result of this study is that the proof ability of students' in the APOS group is significantly better than student in TRAD group, so it is strongly suggested to apply APOS theory in Abstract Algebra course.

Teaching Algebra to Students With Learning Disabilities: Where Have We Come and Where Should We Go?

Science.gov (United States)

Watt, Sarah J; Watkins, Jessie R; Abbitt, Jason

2016-07-01

This review investigates effective interventions for teaching algebra to students with learning disabilities and evaluates the complexity and alignment of skills with the Common Core State Standards in math. The review includes the results of 10 experimental and 5 single-subject designs (N = 15) producing a moderate overall effect size (g = 0.48). A total of five interventions were identified and analyzed across the studies using effect size data. © Hammill Institute on Disabilities 2014.

An application of the division algebras, Jordan algebras and split composition algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Foot, R.; Joshi, G.C.

1992-01-01

It has been established that the covering group of the Lorentz group in D = 3, 4, 6, 10 can be expressed in a unified way, based on the four composition division algebras R, C, Q and O. In this paper, the authors discuss, in this framework, the role of the complex numbers of quantum mechanics. A unified treatment of quantum-mechanical spinors is given. The authors provide an explicit demonstration that the vector and spinor transformations recently constructed from a subgroup of the reduced structure group of the Jordan algebras M n 3 are indeed the Lorentz transformations. The authors also show that if the division algebras in the construction of the covering groups of the Lorentz groups in D = 3, 4, 6, 10 are replaced by the split composition algebras, then the sequence of groups SO(2, 2), SO(3, 3) and SO(5, 5) result. The analysis is presumed to be self-contained as the relevant aspects of the division algebras and Jordan algebras are reviewed. Some applications to physical theory are indicated

Interactions Between Representation Ttheory, Algebraic Topology and Commutative Algebra

CERN Document Server

Pitsch, Wolfgang; Zarzuela, Santiago

2016-01-01

This book includes 33 expanded abstracts of selected talks given at the two workshops "Homological Bonds Between Commutative Algebra and Representation Theory" and "Brave New Algebra: Opening Perspectives," and the conference "Opening Perspectives in Algebra, Representations, and Topology," held at the Centre de Recerca Matemàtica (CRM) in Barcelona between January and June 2015. These activities were part of the one-semester intensive research program "Interactions Between Representation Theory, Algebraic Topology and Commutative Algebra (IRTATCA)." Most of the abstracts present preliminary versions of not-yet published results and cover a large number of topics (including commutative and non commutative algebra, algebraic topology, singularity theory, triangulated categories, representation theory) overlapping with homological methods. This comprehensive book is a valuable resource for the community of researchers interested in homological algebra in a broad sense, and those curious to learn the latest dev...

Perceptions of 9th and 10th Grade Students on How Their Environment, Cognition, and Behavior Motivate Them in Algebra and Geometry Courses

Science.gov (United States)

Harootunian, Alen

2012-01-01

In this study, relationships were examined between students' perception of their cognition, behavior, environment, and motivation. The purpose of the research study was to explore the extent to which 9th and 10th grade students' perception of environment, cognition, and behavior can predict their motivation in Algebra and Geometry courses. A…

Understanding geometric algebra for electromagnetic theory

CERN Document Server

Arthur, John W

2011-01-01

"This book aims to disseminate geometric algebra as a straightforward mathematical tool set for working with and understanding classical electromagnetic theory. It's target readership is anyone who has some knowledge of electromagnetic theory, predominantly ordinary scientists and engineers who use it in the course of their work, or postgraduate students and senior undergraduates who are seeking to broaden their knowledge and increase their understanding of the subject. It is assumed that the reader is not a mathematical specialist and is neither familiar with geometric algebra or its application to electromagnetic theory. The modern approach, geometric algebra, is the mathematical tool set we should all have started out with and once the reader has a grasp of the subject, he or she cannot fail to realize that traditional vector analysis is really awkward and even misleading by comparison"--Provided by publisher.

Introduction to modern algebra and matrix theory

CERN Document Server

Schreier, O; David, Martin

2011-01-01

This unique text provides students with a basic course in both calculus and analytic geometry. It promotes an intuitive approach to calculus and emphasizes algebraic concepts. Minimal prerequisites. Numerous exercises. 1951 edition.

Introduction to Algebra Curriculum Guide, Grade 8, 1987. Bulletin 1802.

Science.gov (United States)

Louisiana State Dept. of Education, Baton Rouge. Div. of Academic Programs.

Because of the high incidence of failure in algebra I among ninth-grade students, the Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education requested the development of this guide with the intention of providing a good pre-algebra foundation. The purposes of the guide are to recognize standards that involve the application of mathematical…

Duncan F. Gregory, William Walton and the development of British algebra: 'algebraical geometry', 'geometrical algebra', abstraction.

Science.gov (United States)

Verburgt, Lukas M

2016-01-01

This paper provides a detailed account of the period of the complex history of British algebra and geometry between the publication of George Peacock's Treatise on Algebra in 1830 and William Rowan Hamilton's paper on quaternions of 1843. During these years, Duncan Farquharson Gregory and William Walton published several contributions on 'algebraical geometry' and 'geometrical algebra' in the Cambridge Mathematical Journal. These contributions enabled them not only to generalize Peacock's symbolical algebra on the basis of geometrical considerations, but also to initiate the attempts to question the status of Euclidean space as the arbiter of valid geometrical interpretations. At the same time, Gregory and Walton were bound by the limits of symbolical algebra that they themselves made explicit; their work was not and could not be the 'abstract algebra' and 'abstract geometry' of figures such as Hamilton and Cayley. The central argument of the paper is that an understanding of the contributions to 'algebraical geometry' and 'geometrical algebra' of the second generation of 'scientific' symbolical algebraists is essential for a satisfactory explanation of the radical transition from symbolical to abstract algebra that took place in British mathematics in the 1830s-1840s.

Perceptions about interpersonal relationships and school environment among middle school students with asthma.

Science.gov (United States)

Rhee, Hyekyun; McQuillan, Brenda; Chen, Ding-Geng; Atis, Shannska

2017-11-01

To examine interpersonal relationships involving peers and teachers and perceptions about school environment among middle school students with asthma in comparison to their healthy counterparts. The study also assesses asthma prevalence in a large sample of middle school students representing different geographic locations. Cross-sectional data were collected from 1059 middle school students in grades 6-8 enrolled in schools in a northeastern region of the United States. Students reported their chronic health conditions including asthma and completed questionnaires measuring perceptions about their relationships with peers and teachers as well as school environment. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) were used to compare students with asthma and their healthy counterparts in the study variables. Asthma was reported by 16.5% of the sample (n = 169). The rate was higher among minority students (23%) than their white counterparts (15%). Greater proportion of urban students (28%) reported asthma than rural (18%) and suburban (14%) students. Students with asthma reported significantly poorer relationships with peers (B = -1.74, p asthma prevalence was substantially higher than the national average of adolescent asthma, particularly those residing in the urban area. Poor perceptions of interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers among students with asthma may indicate compromised quality of life. Suboptimal interpersonal relationships and school environment need to be identified and adequately addressed, given their implications for asthma management at the school setting among middle school students.

An invitation to general algebra and universal constructions

CERN Document Server

Bergman, George M

2015-01-01

Rich in examples and intuitive discussions, this book presents General Algebra using the unifying viewpoint of categories and functors. Starting with a survey, in non-category-theoretic terms, of many familiar and not-so-familiar constructions in algebra (plus two from topology for perspective), the reader is guided to an understanding and appreciation of the general concepts and tools unifying these constructions. Topics include: set theory, lattices, category theory, the formulation of universal constructions in category-theoretic terms, varieties of algebras, and adjunctions. A large number of exercises, from the routine to the challenging, interspersed through the text, develop the reader's grasp of the material, exhibit applications of the general theory to diverse areas of algebra, and in some cases point to outstanding open questions. Graduate students and researchers wishing to gain fluency in important mathematical constructions will welcome this carefully motivated book.

Monomial algebras

CERN Document Server

Villarreal, Rafael

2015-01-01

The book stresses the interplay between several areas of pure and applied mathematics, emphasizing the central role of monomial algebras. It unifies the classical results of commutative algebra with central results and notions from graph theory, combinatorics, linear algebra, integer programming, and combinatorial optimization. The book introduces various methods to study monomial algebras and their presentation ideals, including Stanley-Reisner rings, subrings and blowup algebra-emphasizing square free quadratics, hypergraph clutters, and effective computational methods.

Schools or Students? Identifying High School Effects on Student Suspensions

Science.gov (United States)

Baker-Smith, E. Christine

2015-01-01

Evidence is clear that discipline in high school is associated with negative outcomes across the life course. Not only are suspensions related to declining academic trajectories during high school in the form of attendance and academic achievement, students suspended once are also more likely to be suspended again and also substantially increase…

Bullying among High School Students

Science.gov (United States)

Nursel TÜRKMEN, Delia; Halis DOKGÖZ, Mihai; Semra AKGÖZ, Suzana; Bülent EREN, Bogdan Nicolae; Pınar VURAL, Horatiu; Oğuz POLAT, Horatiu

2013-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective: The main aim of this research is to investigate the prevalence of bullying behaviour, its victims and the types of bullying and places of bullying among 14-17 year-old adolescents in a sample of school children in Bursa, Turkey. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey questionnaire was conducted among class 1 and class 2 high school students for identification bullying. Results: Majority (96.7%) of the students were involved in bullying behaviours as aggressors or victims. For a male student, the likelihood of being involved in violent behaviours was detected to be nearly 8.4 times higher when compared with a female student. Conclusion: a multidisciplinary approach involving affected children, their parents, school personnel, media, non-govermental organizations, and security units is required to achieve an effective approach for the prevention of violence targeting children in schools as victims and/or perpetrators. PMID:24371478

Algebra

CERN Document Server

Tabak, John

2004-01-01

Looking closely at algebra, its historical development, and its many useful applications, Algebra examines in detail the question of why this type of math is so important that it arose in different cultures at different times. The book also discusses the relationship between algebra and geometry, shows the progress of thought throughout the centuries, and offers biographical data on the key figures. Concise and comprehensive text accompanied by many illustrations presents the ideas and historical development of algebra, showcasing the relevance and evolution of this branch of mathematics.

Iwahori-Hecke algebras and Schur algebras of the symmetric group

CERN Document Server

Mathas, Andrew

1999-01-01

This volume presents a fully self-contained introduction to the modular representation theory of the Iwahori-Hecke algebras of the symmetric groups and of the q-Schur algebras. The study of these algebras was pioneered by Dipper and James in a series of landmark papers. The primary goal of the book is to classify the blocks and the simple modules of both algebras. The final chapter contains a survey of recent advances and open problems. The main results are proved by showing that the Iwahori-Hecke algebras and q-Schur algebras are cellular algebras (in the sense of Graham and Lehrer). This is proved by exhibiting natural bases of both algebras which are indexed by pairs of standard and semistandard tableaux respectively. Using the machinery of cellular algebras, which is developed in Chapter 2, this results in a clean and elegant classification of the irreducible representations of both algebras. The block theory is approached by first proving an analogue of the Jantzen sum formula for the q-Schur algebras. T...

Algebra of pseudo-differential operators over C*-algebra

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mohammad, N.

1982-08-01

Algebras of pseudo-differential operators over C*-algebras are studied for the special case when in Hormander class Ssub(rho,delta)sup(m)(Ω) Ω = Rsup(n); rho = 1, delta = 0, m any real number, and the C*-algebra is infinite dimensional non-commutative. The space B, i.e. the set of A-valued C*-functions in Rsup(n) (or Rsup(n) x Rsup(n)) whose derivatives are all bounded, plays an important role. A denotes C*-algebra. First the operator class Ssub(phi,0)sup(m) is defined, and through it, the class Lsub(1,0)sup(m) of pseudo-differential operators. Then the basic asymptotic expansion theorems concerning adjoint and product of operators of class Ssub(1,0)sup(m) are stated. Finally, proofs are given of L 2 -continuity theorem and the main theorem, which states that algebra of all pseudo-differential operators over C*-algebras is itself C*-algebra

Algebraic reasoning and bat-and-ball problem variants: Solving isomorphic algebra first facilitates problem solving later.

Science.gov (United States)

Hoover, Jerome D; Healy, Alice F

2017-12-01

The classic bat-and-ball problem is used widely to measure biased and correct reasoning in decision-making. University students overwhelmingly tend to provide the biased answer to this problem. To what extent might reasoners be led to modify their judgement, and, more specifically, is it possible to facilitate problem solution by prompting participants to consider the problem from an algebraic perspective? One hundred ninety-seven participants were recruited to investigate the effect of algebraic cueing as a debiasing strategy on variants of the bat-and-ball problem. Participants who were cued to consider the problem algebraically were significantly more likely to answer correctly relative to control participants. Most of this cueing effect was confined to a condition that required participants to solve isomorphic algebra equations corresponding to the structure of bat-and-ball question types. On a subsequent critical question with differing item and dollar amounts presented without a cue, participants were able to generalize the learned information to significantly reduce overall bias. Math anxiety was also found to be significantly related to bat-and-ball problem accuracy. These results suggest that, under specific conditions, algebraic reasoning is an effective debiasing strategy on bat-and-ball problem variants, and provide the first documented evidence for the influence of math anxiety on Cognitive Reflection Test performance.

School lunch and snacking patterns among high school students: Associations with school food environment and policies

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Story Mary

2005-10-01

Full Text Available Abstract Objectives This study examined associations between high school students' lunch patterns and vending machine purchases and the school food environment and policies. Methods A randomly selected sample of 1088 high school students from 20 schools completed surveys about their lunch practices and vending machine purchases. School food policies were assessed by principal and food director surveys. The number of vending machines and their hours of operation were assessed by trained research staff. Results Students at schools with open campus policies during lunchtime were significantly more likely to eat lunch at a fast food restaurant than students at schools with closed campus policies (0.7 days/week vs. 0.2 days/week, p Conclusion School food policies that decrease access to foods high in fats and sugars are associated with less frequent purchase of these items in school among high school students. Schools should examine their food-related policies and decrease access to foods that are low in nutrients and high in fats and sugars.

Linear algebra a first course with applications

CERN Document Server

Knop, Larry E

2008-01-01

Linear Algebra: A First Course with Applications explores the fundamental ideas of linear algebra, including vector spaces, subspaces, basis, span, linear independence, linear transformation, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors, as well as a variety of applications, from inventories to graphics to Google's PageRank. Unlike other texts on the subject, this classroom-tested book gives students enough time to absorb the material by focusing on vector spaces early on and using computational sections as numerical interludes. It offers introductions to Maple™, MATLAB®, and TI-83 Plus for calculating matri

Sex differences and violence among primary school students

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Marković Živorad M.

2017-01-01

Full Text Available This is the micro research which studied the connection between gender and violence between older primary school students with the goal of discovering exposure of gender members to violence in school context and the ways of reaction to the violence. The researchers from different scientific disciplines have been permanently involved in studying the problem of violence for more than a decade with the goal to lessen the high percentage of violence in schools. In this sense, this research, with its range and character, represents the contribution in discovering characteristics of violence in schools in one specific local area, which could fill in the wholeness of this phenomenon. The research involved students of the final grade of primary school on the territory of the municipality of Svilajnac (which is in central part of Serbia and it was performed in December 2015. 236 students were surveyed. The survey consisted of the following questions a which questioned the social matrix of families in which the students live b which questioned presence and frequency of different types of violence between students in primary schools c which questioned the attitudes of students of both genders about the violence, exposure to violence in school and the ways of reacting to violence. In the frame of quantitative analysis of the data the following was applied: percentual research of frequencies and Pierson's hi-square test (x2 for testing of hyphothesis about the significance of differences. The main results of the research showed: a There is no statistically significant difference in exposure to violence in school between male and female students of primary school age; both genders are exposed to verbal and physical violence and male students (45.7% are more exposed to physical, and female students (38.3% are more exposed to verbal violence. bThere is no statistically significant difference in the readiness of students considering their gender to help another

Jordan algebras versus C*- algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stormer, E.

1976-01-01

The axiomatic formulation of quantum mechanics and the problem of whether the observables form self-adjoint operators on a Hilbert space, are discussed. The relation between C*- algebras and Jordan algebras is studied using spectral theory. (P.D.)

Instructional Strategies for Teaching Algebra in Elementary School: Findings from a Research-Practice Collaboration

Science.gov (United States)

Earnest, Darrell; Balti, Aadina A.

2008-01-01

Incorporating algebra into the elementary grades has become a focus for teachers, principals, and administrators across the country. The Dinner Tables problem described in this article is a lesson commonly used in elementary grades for its algebraic potential. Instructional strategies for supporting algebra instruction use an example from a…

Greenhouse Schools: How Schools Can Build Cultures Where Teachers and Students Thrive

Science.gov (United States)

TNTP, 2012

2012-01-01

Successful teachers make successful schools. Yet some schools are better than others at accelerating student learning by developing and keeping great teachers, even compared to schools that serve the same population of students and have access to the same resources. These schools are called "greenhouse schools"--schools with carefully…

The Contribution of Student Perceptions of School Climate to Understanding the Disproportionate Punishment of African American Students in a Middle School

Science.gov (United States)

Shirley, Erica L. M.; Cornell, Dewey G.

2012-01-01

This study investigated the contribution of student perceptions of school climate to racial differences in school discipline. Four hundred middle school students completed a school climate survey. Compared to Caucasian students, African-American students were referred to the office for discipline three times as frequently and received five times…

PREFACE: Algebra, Geometry, and Mathematical Physics 2010

Science.gov (United States)

Stolin, A.; Abramov, V.; Fuchs, J.; Paal, E.; Shestopalov, Y.; Silvestrov, S.

2012-02-01

This proceedings volume presents results obtained by the participants of the 6th Baltic-Nordic workshop 'Algebra, Geometry, and Mathematical Physics (AGMP-6)' held at the Sven Lovén Centre for Marine Sciences in Tjärnö, Sweden on October 25-30, 2010. The Baltic-Nordic Network AGMP 'Algebra, Geometry, and Mathematical Physics' http://www.agmp.eu was created in 2005 on the initiative of two Estonian universities and two Swedish universities: Tallinn University of Technology represented by Eugen Paal (coordinator of the network), Tartu University represented by Viktor Abramov, Lund University represented by Sergei Silvestrov, and Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg represented by Alexander Stolin. The goal was to promote international and interdisciplinary cooperation between scientists and research groups in the countries of the Baltic-Nordic region in mathematics and mathematical physics, with special emphasis on the important role played by algebra and geometry in modern physics, engineering and technologies. The main activities of the AGMP network consist of a series of regular annual international workshops, conferences and research schools. The AGMP network also constitutes an important educational forum for scientific exchange and dissimilation of research results for PhD students and Postdocs. The network has expanded since its creation, and nowadays its activities extend beyond countries in the Baltic-Nordic region to universities in other European countries and participants from elsewhere in the world. As one of the important research-dissimilation outcomes of its activities, the network has a tradition of producing high-quality research proceedings volumes after network events, publishing them with various international publishers. The PDF also contains the following: List of AGMP workshops and other AGMP activities Main topics discussed at AGMP-6 Review of AGMP-6 proceedings Acknowledgments List of Conference Participants

Paper 3: Content and Rigor of Algebra Credit Recovery Courses

Science.gov (United States)

Walters, Kirk; Stachel, Suzanne

2014-01-01

This paper describes the content, organization and rigor of the f2f and online summer algebra courses that were delivered in summers 2011 and 2012. Examining the content of both types of courses is important because research suggests that algebra courses with certain features may be better than others in promoting success for struggling students.…

Algebra, Home Mortgages, and Recessions

Science.gov (United States)

Mariner, Jean A. Miller; Miller, Richard A.

2009-01-01

The current financial crisis and recession in the United States present an opportunity to discuss relevant applications of some topics in typical first-and second-year algebra and precalculus courses. Real-world applications of percent change, exponential functions, and sums of finite geometric sequences can help students understand the problems…

Relationships between Classroom Schedule Types and Performance on the Algebra I Criterion-Referenced Test

Science.gov (United States)

Murray, Gregory V.; Moyer-Packenham, Patricia S.

2014-01-01

One option for length of individual mathematics class periods is the schedule type selected for Algebra I classes. This study examined the relationship between student achievement, as indicated by Algebra I Criterion-Referenced Test scores, and the schedule type for Algebra I classes. Data obtained from the Utah State Office of Education included…

We love our school toilets: involving primary school students in improving their school toilets.

Science.gov (United States)

Senior, Elizabeth

2014-03-01

This article reports on the planning, implementation and evaluation of an intervention to improve school students' experience of using the school toilet in a primary school in Melbourne, Australia. 20 students from grades 2-6 participated in focus groups, to discuss what they valued about the school and raise awareness of issues they were not happy about. A common theme from all of the focus groups was that students reported avoiding use of the school toilets. Using the ideas generated from the focus groups, the student council (with input from staff), developed a self-administered pre- and post-test questionnaire. This was given to 220 students in grades 1-4, aged 6-10 years. Improvements suggested by the students were made to the toilet block, and then a post-test was administered. Independent t tests were conducted. The pre-test indicated that 71% of girls and 65% of boys feared the behaviour of other students in the toilet. Overwhelmingly, the qualitative comments focused on poor student behaviour in the toilets, with lack of privacy due to student misbehaviour mentioned in 90% of the comments. After the toilets were revamped, the greatest gains were made in students' attitudes toward the toilets, with a 37% increase in students who indicated they now liked the toilet facility. Incidents of vandalism also decreased; however, student misconduct in the toilets was still regarded as a problem. Involving students in refurbishing their toilets improved how students viewed the toilets and reduced vandalism; however, a different intervention is required to change inappropriate behaviours in the toilet.

Implicative Algebras

African Journals Online (AJOL)

Tadesse

In this paper we introduce the concept of implicative algebras which is an equivalent definition of lattice implication algebra of Xu (1993) and further we prove that it is a regular Autometrized. Algebra. Further we remark that the binary operation → on lattice implicative algebra can never be associative. Key words: Implicative ...

The Linear Algebra Curriculum Study Group Recommendations for the First Course in Linear Algebra.

Science.gov (United States)

Carlson, David; And Others

1993-01-01

Presents five recommendations of the Linear Algebra Curriculum Study Group: (1) The syllabus must respond to the client disciplines; (2) The first course should be matrix oriented; (3) Faculty should consider the needs and interests of students; (4) Faculty should use technology; and (5) At least one follow-up course should be required. Provides a…

Bullying climate and school engagement in ninth-grade students.

Science.gov (United States)

Mehta, Sharmila B; Cornell, Dewey; Fan, Xitao; Gregory, Anne

2013-01-01

Many authorities agree that bullying has a widespread impact on school climate, affecting bystanders as well as victims. This study tested the contention that a climate of bullying can have a schoolwide impact on student engagement in school. Hierarchical linear modeling assessed the relations between student perception of bullying climate and student engagement at the individual and school level in a statewide sample of 7058 ninth graders randomly selected from 289 schools participating in the Virginia High School Safety Study. Student engagement was assessed by self-report scales measuring commitment to school and involvement in school activities. Individual differences in perception of school climate characterized by bullying were associated with lower commitment to school, but not less involvement in school activities. School-level differences in student perceptions of bullying climate were associated with both lower commitment to school and less involvement in school activities, after controlling for the effects of gender, race, school size, proportion of ethnic minority students in the school, and individual-level perception of bullying climate. Efforts to improve student engagement should consider the schoolwide impact of bullying on all students. © 2013, American School Health Association.

Freshman Year Dropouts: Interactions between Student and School Characteristics and Student Dropout Status

Science.gov (United States)

Zvoch, Keith

2006-01-01

Data from a large school district in the southwestern United States were analyzed to investigate relations between student and school characteristics and high school freshman dropout patterns. Application of a multilevel logistic regression model to student dropout data revealed evidence of school-to-school differences in student dropout rates and…

Constructive Learning in Undergraduate Linear Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Chandler, Farrah Jackson; Taylor, Dewey T.

2008-01-01

In this article we describe a project that we used in our undergraduate linear algebra courses to help our students successfully master fundamental concepts and definitions and generate interest in the course. We describe our philosophy and discuss the projects overall success.

How Students Utilize and Perceive Their School Library

Science.gov (United States)

Bleidt, Shirley A.

2011-01-01

School library usage and middle school students' perceptions of the usefulness of their school library were examined in this study. 1,509 predominately Hispanic students attending rural public schools participated by completing an online survey regarding their school libraries. The vast majority of students surveyed reported that they used their…

Open algebraic surfaces

CERN Document Server

Miyanishi, Masayoshi

2000-01-01

Open algebraic surfaces are a synonym for algebraic surfaces that are not necessarily complete. An open algebraic surface is understood as a Zariski open set of a projective algebraic surface. There is a long history of research on projective algebraic surfaces, and there exists a beautiful Enriques-Kodaira classification of such surfaces. The research accumulated by Ramanujan, Abhyankar, Moh, and Nagata and others has established a classification theory of open algebraic surfaces comparable to the Enriques-Kodaira theory. This research provides powerful methods to study the geometry and topology of open algebraic surfaces. The theory of open algebraic surfaces is applicable not only to algebraic geometry, but also to other fields, such as commutative algebra, invariant theory, and singularities. This book contains a comprehensive account of the theory of open algebraic surfaces, as well as several applications, in particular to the study of affine surfaces. Prerequisite to understanding the text is a basic b...

Nevanlinna theory, normal families, and algebraic differential equations

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Steinmetz, Norbert

2017-01-01

This book offers a modern introduction to Nevanlinna theory and its intricate relation to the theory of normal families, algebraic functions, asymptotic series, and algebraic differential equations. Following a comprehensive treatment of Nevanlinna’s theory of value distribution, the author presents advances made since Hayman’s work on the value distribution of differential polynomials and illustrates how value- and pair-sharing problems are linked to algebraic curves and Briot–Bouquet differential equations. In addition to discussing classical applications of Nevanlinna theory, the book outlines state-of-the-art research, such as the effect of the Yosida and Zalcman–Pang method of re-scaling to algebraic differential equations, and presents the Painlevé–Yosida theorem, which relates Painlevé transcendents and solutions to selected 2D Hamiltonian systems to certain Yosida classes of meromorphic functions. Aimed at graduate students interested in recent developments in the field and researchers wor...

Adventures in Flipping College Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Van Sickle, Jenna

2015-01-01

This paper outlines the experience of a university professor who implemented flipped learning in two sections of college algebra courses for two semesters. It details how the courses were flipped, what technology was used, advantages, challenges, and results. It explains what students do outside of class, what they do inside class, and discusses…

Student Achievement in Title I Schools

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Diaz, Abby T.

2017-01-01

This researcher seeks to answer the following question: How did two elementary Title I schools, identified as "high performing" on the first Smarter Balanced assessment, address elements of Maslow's hierarchy of needs when developing school-wide initiatives to enhance student achievement? Many students in Title I schools face barriers to…

Generalized EMV-Effect Algebras

Science.gov (United States)

Borzooei, R. A.; Dvurečenskij, A.; Sharafi, A. H.

2018-04-01

Recently in Dvurečenskij and Zahiri (2017), new algebraic structures, called EMV-algebras which generalize both MV-algebras and generalized Boolean algebras, were introduced. We present equivalent conditions for EMV-algebras. In addition, we define a partial algebraic structure, called a generalized EMV-effect algebra, which is close to generalized MV-effect algebras. Finally, we show that every generalized EMV-effect algebra is either an MV-effect algebra or can be embedded into an MV-effect algebra as a maximal ideal.

Completing Algebra II in High School: Does It Increase College Access and Success?

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Kim, Jeongeun; Kim, Jiyun; DesJardins, Stephen L.; McCall, Brian P.

2015-01-01

Noting the benefits of mathematics in students' future educational attainment and labor market success, there is considerable interest in high school requirements in terms of course-taking in mathematics at the national, state, and school district level. Previous research indicates that taking advanced math courses in high school leads to positive…

Relations between the school physical environment and school social capital with student physical activity levels.

Science.gov (United States)

Button, Brenton; Trites, Stephen; Janssen, Ian

2013-12-17

The physical and social environments at schools are related to students' moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels. The purpose of this study was to explore the interactive effects of the school physical environment and school social capital on the MVPA of students while at school. Data from 18,875 grade 6-10 students from 331 schools who participated in the 2009/10 Canadian Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children survey were analyzed using multi-level regression. Students answered questions on the amount of time they spend in MVPA at school and on their school's social capital. Administrator reports were used to create a physical activity related physical environment score. The school physical environment score was positively associated with student MVPA at school (β = 0.040, p < .005). The association between the school social capital and MVPA was also positive (β = 0.074, p < .001). The difference in physical environments equated to about 20 minutes/week of MVPA for students attending schools with the lowest number of physical environment features and about 40 minutes/week for students attending schools with the lowest school social capital scores by comparison to students attending schools with the highest scores. The findings suggest that school social capital may be a more important factor in increasing students MVPA than the school physical environment. The results of this study may help inform interventions aimed at increasing student physical activity levels.

How to be Brilliant at Algebra

CERN Document Server

Webber, Beryl

2010-01-01

How to be Brilliant at Algebra is contains 40 photocopiable worksheets designed to improve students' understanding of number relationships and patterns. They will learn about: odds and evens; patterns; inverse operations; variables; calendars; equations; pyramid numbers; digital root patterns; prime numbers; Fibonacci numbers; Pascal's triangle.

Connecting Functions in Geometry and Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Steketee, Scott; Scher, Daniel

2016-01-01

One goal of a mathematics education is that students make significant connections among different branches of mathematics. Connections--such as those between arithmetic and algebra, between two-dimensional and three-dimensional geometry, between compass-and-straight-edge constructions and transformations, and between calculus and analytic…

Examining Heterogeneity in the Effect of Taking Algebra in Eighth Grade

Science.gov (United States)

Rickles, Jordan H.

2013-01-01

Increased access to algebra was a focal point of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel's 2008 report on improving mathematics learning in the United States. Past research found positive effects for early access to algebra, but the focus on average effects may mask important variation across student subgroups. The author addresses whether these…

Special set linear algebra and special set fuzzy linear algebra

OpenAIRE

Kandasamy, W. B. Vasantha; Smarandache, Florentin; Ilanthenral, K.

2009-01-01

The authors in this book introduce the notion of special set linear algebra and special set fuzzy Linear algebra, which is an extension of the notion set linear algebra and set fuzzy linear algebra. These concepts are best suited in the application of multi expert models and cryptology. This book has five chapters. In chapter one the basic concepts about set linear algebra is given in order to make this book a self contained one. The notion of special set linear algebra and their fuzzy analog...

High School Physics Students' Personal Epistemologies and School Science Practice

Science.gov (United States)

Alpaslan, Muhammet Mustafa; Yalvac, Bugrahan; Loving, Cathleen

2017-11-01

This case study explores students' physics-related personal epistemologies in school science practices. The school science practices of nine eleventh grade students in a physics class were audio-taped over 6 weeks. The students were also interviewed to find out their ideas on the nature of scientific knowledge after each activity. Analysis of transcripts yielded several epistemological resources that students activated in their school science practice. The findings show that there is inconsistency between students' definitions of scientific theories and their epistemological judgments. Analysis revealed that students used several epistemological resources to decide on the accuracy of their data including accuracy via following the right procedure and accuracy via what the others find. Traditional, formulation-based, physics instruction might have led students to activate naive epistemological resources that prevent them to participate in the practice of science in ways that are more meaningful. Implications for future studies are presented.

Banach Synaptic Algebras

Science.gov (United States)

Foulis, David J.; Pulmannov, Sylvia

2018-04-01

Using a representation theorem of Erik Alfsen, Frederic Schultz, and Erling Størmer for special JB-algebras, we prove that a synaptic algebra is norm complete (i.e., Banach) if and only if it is isomorphic to the self-adjoint part of a Rickart C∗-algebra. Also, we give conditions on a Banach synaptic algebra that are equivalent to the condition that it is isomorphic to the self-adjoint part of an AW∗-algebra. Moreover, we study some relationships between synaptic algebras and so-called generalized Hermitian algebras.

Using Technology to Facilitate Reasoning: Lifting the Fog from Linear Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Berry, John S.; Lapp, Douglas A.; Nyman, Melvin A.

2008-01-01

This article discusses student difficulties in grasping concepts from linear algebra. Using an example from an interview with a student, we propose changes that might positively impact student understanding of concepts within a problem-solving context. In particular, we illustrate barriers to student understanding and suggest technological…

School Safety Concerns All Students.

Science.gov (United States)

Henderson, Megan

1999-01-01

Suggests that school safety is an issue that concerns all students. Discusses how the staff of the Rockwood South (Missouri) "RAMpage" covered the shootings at Columbine High School in a 14-page issue and in follow-up issues. Suggests that the student newspaper covered the controversial topic in an appropriate, tasteful manner. (RS)

Middle School Students' Perceptions of the Quality of School Life in Ankara

Science.gov (United States)

Eres, Figen; Bilasa, Pinar

2016-01-01

The aim of this research is to measure the perception of middle school students in Ankara regarding the quality of school life. According to the findings obtained, the students have moderate level perceptions about the quality of school life. Their perceptions about sub-dimensions vary. While the students have the highest perceptions about…

Modern algebra essentials

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Lutfiyya, Lutfi A

2012-01-01

REA's Essentials provide quick and easy access to critical information in a variety of different fields, ranging from the most basic to the most advanced. As its name implies, these concise, comprehensive study guides summarize the essentials of the field covered. Essentials are helpful when preparing for exams, doing homework and will remain a lasting reference source for students, teachers, and professionals. Modern Algebra includes set theory, operations, relations, basic properties of the integers, group theory, and ring theory.

Inequalities, Assessment and Computer Algebra

Science.gov (United States)

Sangwin, Christopher J.

2015-01-01

The goal of this paper is to examine single variable real inequalities that arise as tutorial problems and to examine the extent to which current computer algebra systems (CAS) can (1) automatically solve such problems and (2) determine whether students' own answers to such problems are correct. We review how inequalities arise in contemporary…

Student Voices in School-Based Assessment

Science.gov (United States)

Tong, Siu Yin Annie; Adamson, Bob

2015-01-01

The value of student voices in dialogues about learning improvement is acknowledged in the literature. This paper examines how the views of students regarding School-based Assessment (SBA), a significant shift in examination policy and practice in secondary schools in Hong Kong, have largely been ignored. The study captures student voices through…

Grassmann algebras

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Garcia, R.L.

1983-11-01

The Grassmann algebra is presented briefly. Exponential and logarithm of matrices functions, whose elements belong to this algebra, are studied with the help of the SCHOONSCHIP and REDUCE 2 algebraic manipulators. (Author) [pt

School Uniform Policies: Students' Views of Effectiveness.

Science.gov (United States)

McCarthy, Teresa M.; Moreno, Josephine

2001-01-01

Focus-group interviews of New York City middle-school students about their perceptions of the effectiveness of the school-uniform policy. Finds that students' perceptions of the effects of school-uniform policy on school culture varied considerably with those intended by the principal. (Contains 40 references.) (PKP)

Graphs in kinematics—a need for adherence to principles of algebraic functions

Science.gov (United States)

Sokolowski, Andrzej

2017-11-01

Graphs in physics are central to the analysis of phenomena and to learning about a system’s behavior. The ways students handle graphs are frequently researched. Students’ misconceptions are highlighted, and methods of improvement suggested. While kinematics graphs are to represent a real motion, they are also algebraic entities that must satisfy conditions for being algebraic functions. To be algebraic functions, they must pass certain tests before they can be used to infer more about motion. A preliminary survey of some physics resources has revealed that little attention is paid to verifying if the position, velocity and acceleration versus time graphs, that are to depict real motion, satisfy the most critical condition for being an algebraic function; the vertical line test. The lack of attention to this adherence shows as vertical segments in piecewise graphs. Such graphs generate unrealistic interpretations and may confuse students. A group of 25 college physics students was provided with such a graph and asked to analyse its adherence to reality. The majority of the students (N  =  16, 64%) questioned the graph’s validity. It is inferred that such graphs might not only jeopardize the function principles studied in mathematics but also undermine the purpose of studying these principles. The aim of this study was to bring this idea forth and suggest a better alignment of physics and mathematics methods.

UNDERSTANDING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT WITH SCHOOL: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Viorel ROBU

2014-11-01

Full Text Available In recent years, there has been an increasing amount of literature on student engagement with school. There is a large agreement on the predictive role that individual differences in student engagement with school plays in relation to a wide range of educational outcomes and to general adjustment. Numerous empirical studies have attempted to explain how individual characteristics of students (e.g., gender, academic motivation, school-related self-efficacy etc., family environment (e.g., parent social support, aspirations of parents concerning the adolescents’ school trajectory or quality of adolescent-parents relationship, and the school/classroom climate (e.g., social support from teachers and peers, autonomy granted to students, quality of instructional practices etc. impact student engagement with school and the academic achievement/performance. This paper summarizes the existing literature on antecedents and positive outcomes of student engagement with school. The implications for educational practice and policy makers are discussed.

Brief Report: A Comparison of Symbol-Precedence View in Investigative and Conventional Textbooks Used in Algebra Courses

Science.gov (United States)

Sherman, Milan F.; Walkington, Candace; Howell, Elizabeth

2016-01-01

Recent reform movements have emphasized students making meaning of algebraic relationships; however, research on student thinking and learning often remains disconnected from the design of widely used curricular materials. Although a previous examination of algebra textbooks (Nathan, Long, & Alibali, 2002) demonstrated a preference for a…

Converting nested algebra expressions into flat algebra expressions

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Paredaens, J.; Van Gucht, D.

1992-01-01

Nested relations generalize ordinary flat relations by allowing tuple values to be either atomic or set valued. The nested algebra is a generalization of the flat relational algebra to manipulate nested relations. In this paper we study the expressive power of the nested algebra relative to its

Surveys in differential-algebraic equations III

CERN Document Server

Reis, Timo

2015-01-01

The present volume comprises survey articles on various fields of Differential-Algebraic Equations (DAEs), which have widespread applications in controlled dynamical systems, especially in mechanical and electrical engineering and a strong relation to (ordinary) differential equations. The individual chapters provide reviews, presentations of the current state of research and new concepts in - Flexibility of DAE formulations - Reachability analysis and deterministic global optimization - Numerical linear algebra methods - Boundary value problems The results are presented in an accessible style, making this book suitable not only for active researchers but also for graduate students (with a good knowledge of the basic principles of DAEs) for self-study.

Threading homology through algebra selected patterns

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Boffi, Giandomenico

2006-01-01

Aimed at graduate students and researchers in mathematics, this book takes homological themes, such as Koszul complexes and their generalizations, and shows how these can be used to clarify certain problems in selected parts of algebra, as well as their success in solving a number of them.

Journal Writing: Enlivening Elementary Linear Algebra.

Science.gov (United States)

Meel, David E.

1999-01-01

Examines the various issues surrounding the implementation of journal writing in an undergraduate linear algebra course. Identifies the benefits of incorporating journal writing into an undergraduate mathematics course, which are supported with students' comments from their journals and their reflections on the process. Contains 14 references.…

Fibered F-Algebra

OpenAIRE

Kleyn, Aleks

2007-01-01

The concept of F-algebra and its representation can be extended to an arbitrary bundle. We define operations of fibered F-algebra in fiber. The paper presents the representation theory of of fibered F-algebra as well as a comparison of representation of F-algebra and of representation of fibered F-algebra.

How Visual Imagery Contributed to College: A Case of How Visual Imagery Contributes to a College Algebra Student's Understanding of the Concept of Function in the United States

Science.gov (United States)

Lane, Rebekah M.

2011-01-01

This investigation utilized the qualitative case study method. Seventy-one College Algebra students were given a mathematical processing instrument. This testing device measured a student's preference for visual thinking. Two students were purposefully selected using the instrument. The visual mathematical learner (VL) was discussed in this…

Medical Student Perceptions of the Learning Environment in Medical School Change as Students Transition to Clinical Training in Undergraduate Medical School.

Science.gov (United States)

Dunham, Lisette; Dekhtyar, Michael; Gruener, Gregory; CichoskiKelly, Eileen; Deitz, Jennifer; Elliott, Donna; Stuber, Margaret L; Skochelak, Susan E

2017-01-01

Phenomenon: The learning environment is the physical, social, and psychological context in which a student learns. A supportive learning environment contributes to student well-being and enhances student empathy, professionalism, and academic success, whereas an unsupportive learning environment may lead to burnout, exhaustion, and cynicism. Student perceptions of the medical school learning environment may change over time and be associated with students' year of training and may differ significantly depending on the student's gender or race/ethnicity. Understanding the changes in perceptions of the learning environment related to student characteristics and year of training could inform interventions that facilitate positive experiences in undergraduate medical education. The Medical School Learning Environment Survey (MSLES) was administered to 4,262 students who matriculated at one of 23 U.S. and Canadian medical schools in 2010 and 2011. Students completed the survey at the end of each year of medical school as part of a battery of surveys in the Learning Environment Study. A mixed-effects longitudinal model, t tests, Cohen's d effect size, and analysis of variance assessed the relationship between MSLES score, year of training, and demographic variables. After controlling for gender, race/ethnicity, and school, students reported worsening perceptions toward the medical school learning environment, with the worst perceptions in the 3rd year of medical school as students begin their clinical experiences, and some recovery in the 4th year after Match Day. The drop in MSLES scores associated with the transition to the clinical learning environment (-0.26 point drop in addition to yearly change, effect size = 0.52, p effect size = 0.14, p work-life balance and informal student relationships. There was some, but not complete, recovery in perceptions of the medical school learning environment in the 4th year. Insights: Perceptions of the medical school learning

The bubble algebra: structure of a two-colour Temperley-Lieb Algebra

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Grimm, Uwe; Martin, Paul P

2003-01-01

We define new diagram algebras providing a sequence of multiparameter generalizations of the Temperley-Lieb algebra, suitable for the modelling of dilute lattice systems of two-dimensional statistical mechanics. These algebras give a rigorous foundation to the various 'multi-colour algebras' of Grimm, Pearce and others. We determine the generic representation theory of the simplest of these algebras, and locate the nongeneric cases (at roots of unity of the corresponding parameters). We show by this example how the method used (Martin's general procedure for diagram algebras) may be applied to a wide variety of such algebras occurring in statistical mechanics. We demonstrate how these algebras may be used to solve the Yang-Baxter equations