Mathematics in the Primary Grades

Abstract

The guiding principle is to begin the new subject always before the old one which leads to it has been completed. Algebra is only arithmetic extended by the introduction of the following new ideas: i. The use of letters to represent generalized number. 2. The use of the minus sign as a symbol of quantity. 3. The equation as a tool for the solution of problems. 4. The use of fractional and negative exponents. 5. The use of irrational numbers. 6. The use of the variable and its limit.