Algebra Games

Introduction

When most people hear algebra, the first things that come to their minds are numbers and mathematical signs like 2y + 2 = 12. But, what if there were more exciting ways to learn algebra instead of using numbers and symbols? Keep reading to know about Algebra games and their value. Learn more about our Mathnasium reviews, Juni learning.com reviews, and Splashlearn reviews.

Basic Concepts of Algebra

Algebra helps learners represent everyday problems in mathematical forms. The basic algebra concepts revolve around solving equations and relating them to other mathematical topics like geometry, calculus, trigonometry, etc. The following sections will break down some basic algebraic concepts.

Prime and Composite Numbers

Prime numbers are greater than 1 with just two factors — itself and 1. For instance, 2, 5, 7, 11, and 13 are prime numbers because no other can divide them. If you divide a prime number by another number other than itself and 1, you will have some numbers left (remainders). For instance, 7÷2 = 3 remainder 1. Unlike a prime number, composite numbers have at least three factors, like 4 (1, 2, and 4), 6 (1, 2, 3, and 6), and 18 (1, 2, 3, 6, 9, and 18).

Additive Comparisons

Additive comparisons refer to a situation where you need to consider quantities while ascertaining which ones are more or less. Usually, additive comparisons come as word problems.

An example of an additive comparison problem is: “If Jess takes 2 minutes to walk to the playground from the classroom, while Blake takes 3 minutes; how much time does Freya take to reach school?” You can easily compute this problem by adding 2+3+4 = 9 minutes. Therefore, it takes Freya 9 minutes to get to the playground.

Multiplicative Comparisons

As the name implies, Multiplicative comparisons refer to the ability to compare two quantities so that the multiplication of one number by an implied value gives you a definite result. An example of a multiplication comparison is a statement like, Kimberly has three cookies, and Emile has thrice as many cookies as Kimberly. In that comparison, the number of cookies with Emile is 3×3 = 9.

Factors

Every number has at least two factors, 1 and itself. In Algebra, factors refer to a number that can conveniently divide another without leaving a remainder. For instance, 2, 3, and 5 are factors of 30 since 2x3x5 can give you 30.

Multiples

You get a multiple when you multiply one number by another. You can even use multiplication tables to learn your multiples. For example, since 2×5 is equal to 10, 2 and 5 are multiples of 10.  Other multiples of 2 can be 2 (2 x 1 = 2), 4 (2 x 2 = 4), 6 (2 x 3 = 6), etc.

Algebra Skills by Grades

As a teacher, don’t let the excitement make you jump the gun when teaching kids algebra. Even if your students are fast learners and ahead of their peers, don’t start teaching them algebra concepts if they don’t have the skills for them. You should know what your child should learn from grade 4 and upwards and use innovative games to help them hone those skills.

Grade 4

In grade 4, your child should already understand addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication. Algebra math games will aid a 4th grader in identifying algebraic signs and languages and filling in missing multiples. They will also learn to tell prime numbers from composite numbers, create additive comparisons, follow number patterns, and recognize sequences.

Grade 5

Since your child’s major focus in Grade 4 was mostly on identification, grade 5 focuses on using the knowledge learned in previous years. In Grade 5, learning algebra games will help your child be grounded in the order of math operations (BODMAS), simplification of expressions, and completion of factor pairs. They will also learn to identify prime numbers from a set and distinguish composite numbers from prime numbers.

Are Algebra Learning Games Good For Learning?

When you tell your child to do their algebra homework, you may notice them grumbling or sleeping off while at it. But you can achieve your set objective if you introduce them to exciting algebra learning games. Besides, when your kids learn algebra using games, you can evaluate their skills and level of understanding.

Let your kid solve equations at an increasingly harder difficulty level. Let them choose the tactics and methods to tackle the problem and learn proper decision-making. They will be more careful and pay attention while playing the game. This trait can help them in real-life situations where they need to think, learn and solve complex problems.

Fun algebra games are good for your kid because they serve as an escape from the boring way they learn in school. Instead of sitting at a desk and listening to their teacher talk, they can get more hands-on. These games engage your kids mentally, teaching them that algebra is not the monster under their bed but a friend they can have fun with.

What Skills Can Algebra Online Games Improve?

Although algebra can be challenging for kids, it is not just about numbers, symbols, and whatnot. Algebra practice games can help your kids develop important skills like critical and analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, independence, teamwork, and so much more. Here is a breakdown of these essential life skills.

Analytical and critical thinking skills

One thing with challenges is that you either run or think about how to solve them. Critical moments require people to think outside the box and seek better ways to handle their problems, much like algebra equations. Interactive algebra games can help your child learn patience, think about intrinsic ideas, and find better measures to fix algebraic problems, a handy skill in the workforce.

Quantitative reasoning skill

Children will develop quantitative reasoning skills to help them express mathematical principles even if they are word problems. This skill will be evident when they begin to solve economic issues as inventors, employees, or business owners. An algebra game can help your kids apply the concepts they experience in algebra to real-life and formal settings using assignments and reenactments.

Independence

Having proper knowledge of algebra can boost your child’s independence and confidence. And thanks to algebra online games, your child won’t need your help or supervision with their algebraic problems. When they know algebra, they can take care of the homework themselves and learn in their free time without much prodding.

Teamwork

When kids learn algebra using intuitive games, they begin to understand the benefits of teamwork. Imagine having your kids and their friends take on a quiz in teams. They will have to brainstorm and pool resources to provide the correct answer. By playing these team games, you subtly teach your kids the importance of collaboration.

Free Online Algebra Games

Kids learn using various methods; what works for one child may not work for the other. So, instead of waiting on your child’s teacher to do all the teaching duties, you can decide to promote home-based learning using online algebra games. Algebra games can provide your child with the necessary foundational skills that are useful today and in the foreseeable future.

These math games won’t just teach your child algebra; they will also cement their existing math knowledge and how things work. So, think of these algebra games as an out-of-school educational experience.

A pre-algebra game is a nice way to build your child’s algebraic skills while they have fun. You can use pre-algebra games free to build your child’s anticipation for the real deal. With pre-algebra math games, you do not need to bother about keeping your child interested in learning. Since children love games and gadgets, their learning process will go on smoothly. So, why would you want to miss out on the chance to use pre-algebra online games as a means to ease the learning process?

You can get games online to improve your child’s concentration on algebra. These games use subtle psychological tricks to get your child in the mood to tackle number problems. Remember that the State provides the curriculum each school follows. However, these free online games give your child the chance to learn at their convenience and pace.

As a parent, don’t be skeptical about getting free online games, especially since premium ones are on the market. The goal is to find a game your kid will love and learn from. You do not need to bother about purchases, subscriptions, or renewals with free algebra games. And unlike offline games, you can save your child’s level and customize their playing mode. By picking games appropriate for your child’s age and grade, you can join them on the journey to loving algebra and learning as a whole.

Conclusion

Math and algebra are two operations people fear because of their complexities. Fortunately, with online learning games as tools, your child can learn algebra the fun way instead of settling for the conventional pen-in-hand style. So, having understood the several benefits of algebra, use the free online algebra games to teach your kid.