This is a FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE class with NO live meetings. It is similar to the live class but is meant for learners to engage with the teacher, classmates, and class content during an 4-week flexible schedule period using the Outschool Classroom. This class is designed for learners who cannot participate in the scheduled live classes due to scheduling conflicts or learners who may be uncomfortable or unfamiliar with the live version of the class.

A note about course interactions:
All class discussions will take place in the Outschool Classroom. And, pre-recorded instructional videos, activities, handouts, and assignments will all be available in the Outschool Classroom. Each week, learners will engage in two lessons that include the following: (1) a recorded video with screen sharing and teacher commentary to work through the goals of each lesson, (2) a discussion component in which learners will engage with each other, (3) handouts with lesson information, and (4) an assignment to complete before moving to the next lesson. Learners will interact with each other and with the teacher through guided weekly discussions. The teacher will also provide weekly assignment feedback to learners and respond to questions or concerns.

The Hands-on Equations program was developed by Dr. Henry Borenson as a way to give younger children access to understanding algebra concepts in a fun and concrete way. Borenson is known as the man who “made algebra child’s play.” 

In this class, learners will be introduced to the process of solving algebraic equations using a physical and visual model to solve for unknown variables. We will take abstract problems and turn them into problems that are concrete and easy to understand. Learners will leave this class with the confidence needed to tackle algebra while feeling proud of their ability to solve big kid problems! 

Learners will need to be prepared for each lesson with hands-on equations materials. This is an absolute must for learners to get the most benefit from this class. You can either purchase a student kit online or print and create your own materials using provided printable materials. These materials will be available before the start of class and should be downloaded and printed prior to the first lesson if you choose not to purchase the Hands-on Equations student kit. A link to the Hands-on Equations student kit will also be provided upon enrollment. I do highly recommend the Hands-on Equations kit!

Level 1 of Hands-on Equations introduces learners to the process of solving simple linear equations such as 3x + 2x + 4 = 20 + x or 2(2x + 3) = x + 9 where there is an unknown variable that must be isolated and then solved. Learners will use pawns and number cubes to represent algebra problems on a balance scale image. They will then simplify and solve for the unknown variable using a prescribed process. The class atmosphere will be fun and engaging for learners!

The Hands-On Equations method was designed for young learners in grades 3 and up. This class is also appropriate for highly gifted young learners (2nd grade). Learners should have a strong foundation in basic addition and subtraction and should understand multiplication and have a beginning sense of multiplication facts through 12. This is a great class for accelerated learners who need a little more from their math classes. It’s also perfect for learners in grades 3-5 who are ready to begin solving basic linear equations. 

Week 1: Learners will be introduced to the Hands-on Equations game pieces, including the balance scale, pawns, and number cubes. Learners will begin to explore the concepts of equations, variables, and unknowns. Learners will explore the process of solving linear equations using the Hands-on Equations method. (HOE Lesson 1 and HOE Lesson 2).

Week 2: Learners will continue exploring the process of solving linear equations using the Hands-on Equations method. Learners will be introduced to “legal moves” to help them solve equations. (HOE Lesson 3 and HOE Lesson 4).

Week 3: Learners will continue exploring the process of solving linear equations using the Hands-on Equations method. Learners will use “legal moves” to help them solve equations. They will also discover the distributive property through solving equations such as 2(2x + 3) = x + 9. (HOE Lesson 5 and HOE Lesson 6).

Week 4: Learners will continue exploring the process of solving linear equations using the Hands-on Equations method. Learners will use “legal moves” to help them solve equations. Learners will transfer their concrete, hands-on experience in solving algebraic linear equations to a pictorial system involving only paper and pencil. We will conclude this week by solving fun word problems using the Hands-on Equations method. (HOE Lesson 7 and HOE word problems).