Early algebraic thinking and the US mathematics standards for grades K to 5 / El pensamiento algebraico temprano y los estándares matemáticos en la Educación Primaria (6–12 años) en Estados Unidos

Abstract

We relate studies of algebraic thinking in elementary school (grades K–5, ages five to 10) to current mathematics standards in the United States. Classroom research increasingly paints a promising picture of the potential of young students to learn to think algebraically. This confirms the overall judgment behind recommendations to create a K–12 algebra strand (for ages five to 17) but leaves a host of challenges regarding the implementation of algebraic thinking activities in classrooms and, more generally, to the preparation of teachers.