Expression

Coefficient
Constant

Variable
 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Table of Contents Pages

Part-I: Introduction: 2-3

Part-II: Proceedings
Session 1: Welcome & Key note address 4
History of Algebra 4 – 15
Three construction Problems 16
What is Algebra & Introduction 17 – 18
Pre-Algebra 18 – 22
Text Book Analysis 22 – 23
Nature of Algebra 24 – 31
Operations with Algebraic Expressions 31 – 33
Feedback & Valedictory Session 33 – 34

Part-II: Annexures
Agenda 35 – 38
List of Participants 38 – 39
Assignments 40

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Part I

Introduction

Context

Azim Premji Foundation is working in the Tonk since 2005 and implemented many programmes that seek
to demonstrate improvement of quality, build accountability towards quality education among
stakeholders and bringing about systemic changes in education delivery system. During these
interventions, we supported and worked with teachers at different stages. Over the years working with
teachers, whether it is govt. organized training programmes or any workshops, we have developed a
robust relationship with them and cultivated an understanding on their academic requirements.

During participation in Govt. training programmes and workshops, it was experienced that important
issues and contents of mathematics (Algebra is a matter of so far) were remain untouched. Though
teachers manage to deal with Arithmetic somehow, but feel difficulty to clarify the concept and method of
Algebra to students in the class room. It led us to develop a course on Algebra and organize a series of
workshops with teachers who are teaching Mathematics at middle level in govt. private or any charity
(NGO) schools. It was first one in the series in which we covered the basics of Algebra.

Programme and Process: The workshop was conducted as per the agenda prepared earlier. With
objectives in view, the discussion was held around the following major topics (For details please see
Annex-1):

 History of Algebra
 What is Algebra
 Need, importance and difficulties in linear Algebra
 Basic Math for Algebra
 Introduction to Algebra
 Basic operations with Algebraic expressions and their properties.
 Linear equation in one variable

It was felt that if we come directly to the content, we would not be able to attract participant’s attention.
2
Therefore facilitators planned some warm up activities (Inspirational & child songs in morning and games
in post lunch session) to takes them ahead. It really worked and ignited the spark among participants for
day’s activities.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Participants

Around 14 participants, who are teaching mathematics to children at upper primary level, took part in the
workshop from different Government and Private schools. (For detail please see Annex-2)

Resource Material

The participants were provided with resource

materials for reading and references which include
the history of Algebra and other, concerning to
sessions and activities for Algebra.

Facilitators

 Dinesh Chaudhary
 Hanuman Sharma
 Ashish Gupta
 Vinod Sharma

Supportive Role

 Abhishek Singh Rathore

 Alok Singh Rathore
 Lohit Kumar Joshi
 Vinod Kumar Jain

Guest

 Prasad (Banglore)
 Kushal (Banglore)
 Vinay (Jaipur)

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Part II

Proceedings

Welcome & Key note Address

Abhishek, Leader, District Institute, Tonk welcomed the participants and extended greetings. Sharing the
purpose of workshop, he described the philosophy of training and its two assumptions as follow;

1. All the class rooms have some problem which can be solved with set of efforts. If they are
considered to apply, it is believed that training was successful.
2. Teacher is a sensible human being and can solve all the issues. Due to different circumstances,
there cannot be a prescribed solution for them. We own self would find the solution.

“We believe in second one. We would not provide the off the rack solution of any problem even can’t.
Here, we all would be learning and supporting each other and seeking methods to find out solution of
problems and difficulties through discussion and sources for them” Abhishek opined

Further, introducing the Azim Premji Foundation (APF) (origin, vision, mission, interventions and future
strategy), he indicated the need of giving attention on three important things to set better education
system and stated, how APF is working on them

1. Education of teacher’s of teachers

2. Efficacy of people who are leading the system
3. Structure

After welcome and introduction session, Participants were asked to share their class room experiences on
Algebra. Most of them were found to be struggling to clarify concept and formulas of Algebra to students.
After listening their expectations and issues, the contents, to be discussed in three days, were shared
with them. The sessions we could conduct in these three days are as follow

History of Algebra

The session started with the question – why we need to know the history? As expected, many interesting
answers were derived from participants. Some of them are
4
 It creates an interest in children
 Gives a knowledge that how one thing came in existence

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

 How we reach at current system or methodology, who worked, what problems they faced and
how they solved them. Knowing these all things can be useful to solve the problems of daily life.
 To know its development, significance and sources of origin

Hanuman and Ashish During History Session

Consolidating the answers, Facilitator went ahead and presented a PPT on History.

Basically two points were covered during history session

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

1. Developmental Stages in Algebra

The time before Diophantus (around 250): the rhetoric stage

Initially ordinary language was used to describe the solution to problems. No symbols or special designed signs were used.
Everything was described in ordinary language.

The time from Diophantus (around 250 to 1600): the abbreviation or syncopated stage.

In this period mathematicians started using abbreviations for unknown (but specific) quantities.

The Abstract Stage (1600 – till today): the symbolic stage.

In this period letters were used not only to represent unknowns but letters were also used to
represent given quantities (used as parameters).

2. Evolution of Algebra in different civilization

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Further he unfolded all the civilizations one by one.

Egyptian Algebra –

“Most of the ancient Egyptian mathematics, including

algebra, is based on the Rhind papyrus. This was
written about 1650 B.C. and is thought to represent
the state of Egyptian mathematics of about 1850 B.C.
They could solve problems equivalent to a linear
equation in one unknown. Their method was what is
now called the "method of false position.
Rhind Mathematical Papyrus

"Their algebra was rhetorical, i.e., it used no symbols. Problems were stated and solved verbally.”
facilitator added.

Through putting below example, he tried to explain the "method of false position" and the process of
solving problems.

X + 1/2x = 16
A quantity and its half added together become 16. What is the quantity?

Assume
Method of
1 = 2 False position

½ = 1

Total 3

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

As many times as 3 must be multiplied to give 16, so many times 2 must be multiplied to give the
required number.

1 3

2 6

4 12

2/3 2

1/3 1

Total 5⅓

Now 1 = 5⅓

So 2 = 10⅔

Do it thus; the quantity is 10⅔

Half of it 5⅓

Total 16

Babylonian Algebra

Facilitator explained it in below way

 The mathematics of the Old Babylonian Period is (1800 – 1600 B.C.) They had a general
procedure equivalent to solving quadratic equations, although they recognized only one root and
that had to be positive. In effect, they had the quadratic formula.
 They also dealt with the equivalent of systems of two equations in two unknowns. They
considered some problems involving more than two unknowns and a few equivalents to solving
equations of higher degree 8
 There was some use of symbols, but not much.
 Like the Egyptians, their algebra was essentially rhetorical.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

 The procedures used to solve problems were taught through examples and no reasons or
explanations were given. Like

To understand the process of solving problems in this civilization, a video was presented in which
problem was solved through geometric methods. It can be seen at login below address.

Example: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lr4X5YIjwH4&feature=player_detailpage

It was in English; hence to understand the problem, it was seen two or three times by participants. But
after all, they got it and solved it in geometric methods.

Problem - The area of the rectangular field is 55 square units. The length is 6 units more than its width.
How long its width.

First, present the problem in geometric form, like below

55
?

?+6

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Converted the rectangle in perfect square

Cut this area and paced below

55

55 It must be 5

To make it perfect square this

3
part is added, the area is 9.

Now it has become a perfect square. Total area is 55 + 9 = 64 square meter. One side = 8.

10
X = 5, so length in 5+6 = 11.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Greek Geometrical Algebra

The Greeks of the classical period, who did not recognize the existence of
irrational numbers, avoided the problem thus created by representing
quantities as geometrical magnitudes. Various algebraic identities and
constructions equivalent to the solution of quadratic equations were
expressed and proven in geometric form. In content there was little
beyond what the Babylonians had done, and because of its form
geometrical algebra was of little practical value. This approach retarded progress in algebra for several
centuries. In the 3rd century, the Greek mathematician Diophantus of Alexandria wrote his book
Arithmetica.
Diophantine Algebra

He briefed the important points.

 He introduced the syncopated style of writing equations. The rhetorical style remained in
common use for many more centuries to come.
 He gives a treatment of indeterminate equations - usually two or more equations in several
variables that have an infinite number of rational solutions. Such equations are known today as
"Diophantine equations".
 He had no general methods. Each problem in the Arithmetic is solved by a different method.
 When a quadratic equation had two positive rational roots he gave only one as the solution.
There was no deductive structure to his work.

This is a linear Diophantine equation

Example: Problems of Diophantus

Solutions in whole numbers or fractions:

Problem 2x+3y = 10

11
Sol. X = 2, y = 2

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Hindu Algebra

“They invented and treated zero as a number and discussed operations involving this number” facilitator
reiterated. Concept of Zero was discussed in detail and participants sought the answers of many
questions like, why it is invented, how we felt the need of Zero and so on

“To clear the concept of nothing, it treated as a number” facilitator responded. He put some examples to
clarify this.

Before existence of zero 403 was written like 4 3. They left some space between numbers. After some
time they started to use symbols such as 4.3 or 4@3. But question aroused that will another person also
get it in same meaning.

What is the value of x?

So there is big contribution of 0 and debt numbers in algebra.

“They introduced negative numbers to represent debts. The first known use is by Brahmagupta about
628. Bhaskara (1114 AD) recognized that a positive number has two square roots. The Hindus also
developed correct procedures for operating with irrational numbers” he added and clarified it with
example.

Example: ‘Pell’s Equation’ - Bhaskara (1100 AD)

Problem- what is that square which multiplied by 8 becomes- together with unity- a square?

𝟖𝒙𝟐 𝟏 𝒚𝟐

12
Pell’s Equation

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Later facilitator conferred on Hindu Mathematician Shridharacharya and his formula to find the roots of
a quadratic equation of form

This is as follows-

For proof: click to this link

http://www.eklavya.in/pdfs/Sandarbh_76/65-68_Where_is_the_Square_to_Complete.pdf

He elaborated the whole process that how it was derived.

Two third time of the day was gone away in discussion on above points. The process of deriving method
to find the roots of a quadratic equation, left the participants little bit tired mentally. Therefore the
discussion on remaining part of history was shifted on next day. At last one hour, Dinesh took the charge
and facilitated another topic, what is Algebra.

In this session participants were divided in group and managed to recall their knowledge and
understanding over algebra. Participants shared their views to each other and prepared chart
presentations till end of the day.

2nd Day
25 September, 2012

It was 9:00 AM in the morning, the scheduled time for the participants to arrive but only few of them
were present. Facilitator made a small circle with those who were present to keep them busy and
chanted some Chetna and Baal Geets while others arrive. 13

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

After 15 minutes of warm up session, he guided the participants for recap of first day. He designed the
session in question answer form which not only summarized the last day’s actions and discussions but
also provided us the feedback and suggestions. Below three questions were asked to participants.

 What did yesterday?

 What went well?
 What to be added or improved?

Most of them were applauded the first session History of Algebra. “It was first in my life that I am going
through with history of Algebra” participant pointed out. They also enjoyed the geometric methods for
solving the Algebraic problems.

Facilitator started the session ……..

Once again Ashish initiated the day and elaborated remaining part of history

Arabic Algebra

First he showed the cover page of book Hisab aljabrw'al muqabala

written by mathematician Mohammed ibn-Musa al-Khwarizmi and

explained below points

 They took over and improved the Hindu number symbols and
the idea of positional notation.
 Like the Hindus, the Arabs worked freely with irrationals.
 The algebra of the Arabs was entirely rhetorical.
 This title is sometimes translated as "Restoring and
Simplification" or as "Transposition and Cancellation."

Cover Page of book

Facilitator added 14
 In algebra the Arabs contributed first of all the name. The word "algebra" comes from the title of
a text book.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

 Equation is called Aljabrw'al in Arabi and muqabala in Pharsi. Brhamgupt called is Beejganit first
time.

“They could solve quadratic equations, recognizing two solutions, possibly irrational, but usually rejected
negative solutions” Ashish added and explained it with example.

Problem - sum of square and 10 roots are equal to 39 units.

Facilitator added

This problem was mentioned by Al-khwarizmi (Mathematician) in his book. Whatever that may be the
problems, he (Al-khwarizmi) also solved them through geometrical methods

He further asked to participants for solving the problem in geometrical method. It was not tough for
them as they have solved the problem earlier through this method. Later facilitator shared process of Al-
khwarizmi in which he solved the problem.

Equation: x2 + 10 x = 39

 Al-Khwarizmi starts with a square of side x, which

therefore represents x2 (Figure 1).
 To the square we must add 10x and this is done by
adding four rectangles each of breadth 10/4 and length
x to the square (Figure 2).
 Figure 2 has area x2 + 10 x which is equal to 39.
 We now complete the square by adding the four little
squares each of area. 5/2x5/2 = 25/4.
 Hence the outside square in Fig 3 has area 4 x 25/4 +
39 = 25 + 39 = 64.
 The side of the square is therefore 8.
 But the side is of length 5/2 + x + 5/2 so x + 5 = 8, 15
giving x = 3.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Thus, facilitators introduced the different civilization and methods of solving problems. These examples
created curiosity among participants. It covered the almost one day but we never felt that participants
are getting bored.

Three Impossible Classical Constructions

Ashish referred on these problems little bit on first

day during history session and promised to
participants for sharing these problems. Now he
shared them and encouraged for trying to solve
them.

1. Squaring the Circle. Given a circle, construct a

square that has exactly the same area as the
circle.

2. Trisecting an Angle. Given an angle, construct

an angle whose measure is exactly 1/3 the
measure of the original angle.

Participant’s Attempt

3. Doubling a Cube. Given the length of the side of a (three-dimensional) cube, construct a length so that
a cube with an edge of this length will have exactly double the area of the original cube.

Participants made attempt to solve the second one but could not do (see above picture). Though some of
them put a very decent reason that why they are impossible. Such as

“First one can be solved if we could find the exact value of (Pie), that is not possible” participant
assumed

To maintain the impetus and keep on their interest, facilitator (Vinod) put some puzzled to participants as
one of us suggested during last review meeting. It really worked and involved all attendants completely
16
even they took relief after solving them.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Continue to what is Algebra and introduction to Algebra -

A short discussion on it had been done at first day. They had discussed it in group and prepared
presentation on charts. Now one person from each group came on center and presented whatever they
discussed in group.

Groups presented –

 It is branch of mathematics in which we

create relation among mathematical
numbers.
 Mode of writing the numbers in symbols.
 Mode of solving mathematical problems
through symbols
 To establish relation between variable and
constant
 It helps in solving problems through
generalization
 It is branch of mathematics through which we find out the value of unknown
 In which we use algebraic expressions to find out value of unknown.

These are the some points which came from the participants. Getting views of participants, Hanuman led
the session. Before going to define Algebra, he introduced Arithmetic and its relation to Algebra.

“Arithmetic is a branch of mathematics that deals with properties of the counting, and also whole
numbers and fractions and the basic operations applied to these numbers” he defined. In this we go to
the generality from specific. Same thing we do in Algebra” he added.

After an hour of brain storming and discussion, consensus made in below points

 Algebra is the part of mathematics in which letters and other symbols (x, y, z or a, b, c) are used
to represent numbers and quantities in formulae and equations.
 It helped to solve the problems easily. (What is the square which combined with ten of its roots
will give a sum total of 39. Making equation in algebra it can be solved easily. (
17

 IT is a generalize form of Arithmetic.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

He depicted many examples and convinced them in lucid language to prove and clear the above points.

Pre-Algebra

Facilitator pitched a question to participants.

“Why Algebra starts from class 6th or what a child should learn before dealing with Algebra”

Participants responded

 Complete knowledge for operations (Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division)

 Mathematical Formulation of problems
 Understanding of the properties of numbers
 The knowledge of Natural, whole and Q numbers.
 Simple and Decimal fractions
 Knowledge of rational numbers

Facilitator added…..

“Above are the primary concepts to understand the Algebra. If a respectable work has been done on
above points then a students can easily deal with algebraic problems”

To understand the above concepts in depth, facilitator again asked the series of questions and invited the
participants one by one to solve it.

Question related to order of operations.

रमेश 50 रूपये लेकर बाजार गया। उसने सब्जी लाले से र रूपये के रलकलक के वाल से
लकलक आलू खरीदे । तथा फल लाले से 5 रूपये प्रतत लकलक की दर से लकलक अमरूद खरीदे ।
संलियाओं का िम तय करते हुये बताओ उसके पास अब लकतने रूपये शेष रहे । ।

Participant’s attempt

Mathematical Formulation -

Solution - , 18

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑⃑
Question 2 [ { ( )}]

Removed Bar

Participants’ attempts { ( )}]

Removed Small Brackets in

changing order of operations

{ }

Removed Curly Brackets in

changing order of operations

19

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Removed Square Brackets

Participant’s attempt

20

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Participants intervened

“They (students) also often make mistake to complete the operations in integer numbers” Such as

Should be -3

-1 + (-2) = 3

They often forget to add 0

505/5 = 11

Here facilitator introduced some innovative practices to teach the operations and clarifying concept of
adding 0. He quoted some examples related to integer numbers

Question related to integer numbers

1- ?
2- ?
3- ?
4- ?
5-

Participant’s remark

These all questions will be solved through number line.

Participants drew the line and stated their way to solve these types of questions or to teach children in
class rooms.

Facilitator added

Positive numbers are right hand of number line and negative numbers are in left hand. 21

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

When the number is positive, count to the right.

When the number is negative, count to the left.

_ +

Example

3+(-5) = -2 First digit is positive so

go to 3 steps at right
hand
+

Another number is negative

_
so change the direction and
go to 5 steps 22

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

The sound discussion was held on plus minus calculation and the way of teaching to solve these types of
questions.

Through these examples, facilitator clarified required primary level of understanding and their important
to deal with Algebra. The long discussion was held on the concept of removing brackets with changing
order of operation in which students often make mistakes.

Analysis of Text books

Once again participants requested to sit in their respective groups and guided for another group activity.
All three groups were given set of chapters from books of different publication (NCERT, SIERT and
Private publication) and asked to analyzed them on the basis of below points

 Approach towards unknown and variable.

 Association with foreknowledge
 Discussion on importance of learning
 Inclusion of activities
 Initiation and steps of proceedings
 Engagement with atmospheric experiences.

First, all groups were required to do comparative analysis among them, afterwards to present review of
one publication, was assigned to them as follow

 Group I – Private Publication

 Group II – SIERT
 Group III – NCERT

After half an hour of discussion, one or two members of each group presented the given task.

Group I – Private Publication

 It explained the concept of unknown through examples but generalization is not clear.
 With the help of properties, it showed the relationship with Arithmetic.
 It tries to convince Algebra through letters.
 Operations can be done with letters, has been explained it through examples. 23
 The development of the lessons is very good but use of properties in beginning seems
irrelevant.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Group II – SIERT

 It uses signs for unknown. For instance, the diameter of a circle is twice to its radius. They
composed it as follows
D = 2r
D = Diameter and r = Radius
 Approaches are not so apparent.
 Not defined the variable and constant.

Group III – NCERT

 It introduced different branches of mathematics and relation among them

 Also explained history of Algebra little bit.
 It introduced Algebra through activities (See the example of making L by matchsticks)

Through this session, all the participants made an understanding on what and how should be taught to
children in beginning of Algebra and identified the suitable route and activities to make it comfortable for
children.

At last, facilitator passed two puzzles to participants and asked to come with solution at next day.

Puzzle -

24

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

3rd Day

26 September, 2012

Day began with songs and recap. Then we came to the puzzles, were asked at the end of last day. It was
great to see; many of them worked at home and came with solution. They came on board and solved
them more than one way. In next few minutes, participants shared the process, discussed (mostly on
king and horses, see above two pictures) and made a common understanding on the puzzle.

Nature of Algebra

Coming to the agenda of last day, facilitator started the session with a question.

Question – मॉ अपने तीन बचचों के ललए इडललया बनाकर बराबर बांटकर खाने कक कह कर चली गई है ।

लेलकन तीनक बचचे अलग-अलग समय आए और तीन हहस्सों में बांटकर अपना-अपना हहससा खाकर

चले गए। इस कारण अंत में कुछ इडललया लफर बच गई जजनहें मां ने बचचों में बराबर बांटकर पूरा

लकया। तक बताओं मां ने कम से कम लकतनी इडललया बनाई होंगी।

Through this example, he tried to convince them the nature of Algebra. For instance, question says that

 Idlees (इडललया) to be divided in three parts.

 Every child should get equal portion.

 One of them comes, divides them in three parts, eats its part, and mix remaining both the parts.
Then second one came, does same thing. Afterwards third one and their mother repeat the
process.

Ashish added……..

“Here we need to think in different direction (mentioned above), so Algebra teaches us to generalize the
things”

He further described the three key steps on which someone should work in solving process any problem
25
from beginning to end. These are

 Specific to Generalization (getting rules or formula for solution)

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

 Generalization to Specific (Symbolic form)

 Simplification

He clarified this explaining below example

Make a square

One side in 4 cm

Explained the formula to get area of square

 All sides are equal so the Area is the side length squared:(Specific to Generalize)

Area 𝑎 = 𝑎 𝑎 , (Generalize to
specific or symbolic)
a

So,

26

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Facilitator added……..

 First, we should teach generalization to children

 It can be clarified through getting examples of their surroundings.

“But how we should teach the generalization and concept of variable and unknown to students” facilitator
put another question and invited participants to share their methods of teaching in class room.

Participants relied……….

Through examples,

Participants - 1

Problem - What we should add in 3, it becomes 8

OR It is variable

Participant – 2

Make an L form Match Sticks

1 L = 2 sticks

2 L = 4 stick
27

3L = 6 sticks

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Children go on forming the pattern with 1 L, 2Ls and 3Ls and so on and prepare a table

No. of
Ls 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
formed
No. of
Match
2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
sticks
required

While writing the table, now students realize that the no. of match sticks required is twice the no. of Ls
formed.

Number of matchsticks required =

Now if I asked, how many matchsticks are required to form 100 , child will easily give answer – 200.
Because he has understand, here is the no. of in the pattern and takes value 1, 2, 3, 4…….. The
value of goes on changing (increasing), as a result, the no. of matchsticks required also goes on
changing (increasing).

N is an example of variable.

Thus, one or two more participants came and shared the way of clarifying the concept of variable to
children.

Now question aroused, are unknown and variable have same meaning?

Facilitator Added………

Both are different word and have different meaning.

 Variable means something that can vary, i.e. change which has been described above
(matchsticks and L) in detail.
 Unknown means something which need to be found.
28

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Unknown

Participants asked………..

 What is the most suitable method to clarify the concept of variable and unknown?

Facilitator added…………..

 The second examples, making L from matchsticks seems suitable as in which children, learning
by doing.
 NCERT also saying like this in its class 6th book.
 It talks about mere variable (not unknown). But we can clear the concept of variable and
unknown, even difference.

Algebraic Expression

Again facilitator started with the problem

“Before 5 year, the age of Shyam was twice of Ram. What is the age of Ram?”

Suppose,

The age of Ram = x years

Before 5 years, the age of Shyam was twice of Ram =

Then the age of Shyam =

Algebraic
Expression

Now facilitator asked the definition of Algebraic Expression –

Participants views….. 29

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Operation, unknown, arbitrary constant (coefficient) and constant, all these together make an Expression.
That is called Algebraic Expression.

Later facilitator elucidated it in below way

Expression

Arbitrary Consonant
Constant

Unknown

Group Activity

For more clarification, facilitator designed the

group activity and conducted it as follow;

 Participants were divided in three groups

and given matchsticks.
 They were need to be prepared square,
triangle and pentagon form these
matchsticks
 The condition was the least no. of
matchsticks to be used.

After working 20 minutes on it, they were asked

two questions. 30

 How many matchsticks are needed for the first shape?

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

 How many more are needed for the next shape?

Participants prepared table on each shape and created function rule or algebraic expressions

Square

Shape
1 2 3 4 5
number
Number of
4 7 10 13 16
matchsticks

4 matchsticks are needed for the first shape, 3 more are needed for the next shape. After first shape
equal matchsticks are needed for next shapes. It is generalization.

General to specific

Function Rule - Number of matchsticks =

𝑛 = Algebraic Expression

So and so the table, expressions and function rules were prepared for other two shapes also.

Triangle -

Pentagon -

Operations (Addition and subtraction) with Algebraic expression 31

Facilitator asked two questions to participants and invited for made it clear explaining below example

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

 Addition -
Question - Sarita has some marbles. Ameena has 10 more than Sarita. Appu says that he has 3 more
marbles than the number of marbles Sarita and Ameena together have. How do you get the number of
marbles that Appu has?

Participants tried and easily made some expressions. Facilitator explained it in smooth-tongued. Such as

Situation (described in local Variables Statement using expressions

language)
Sarita has some Marbles Ameena has marbles.
Ameena has 10 more marbles
than Sarita
Their brother (Appu) has 3 more Let Sarita has x marbles. He has
marbles than both (Sarita and
Ameena)
How many marbles Appu has

 Subtraction –

Question - In a garden, roses and marigolds are planted in square plots. The length of the square plot
in which marigolds are planted is 3 metres greater than the length of the square plot in which roses are
planted. How much bigger in area is the marigold plot than the rose plot?

Facilitator explained

There are two gardens in square shape -

32
x (x+3)

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Find out the difference in their area.

Area =

So, and

Difference between them

The answer is

Facilitator added ……..

The motive behind doing these exercises was to teach children creating algebraic expression (AE) and
using operation (Addition and subtraction)

After elaborating both the operations, facilitator asked to all participants for making 5-5 problems, in the
context of their surroundings, individually. We discussed few of them (one or two problems of each
participant) and created AE. Such as

1. xk;=h ds ikl dqN cQhZ ds pkSds Fks] mlesa ls dqN pkSds ckcw [kk x;kA crkvksa
xk;=h ds ikl fdrus pkSds cpsA
2. ekaxh yky ds ikl 30 dafp;ka Fkh] iIiw us mlesa dqN vkSj daps mls fn;sA crkvksa
ekaxh yky ds ikl fdrus daps gS\
3. vferk us viuh lgsyh ds tUefnu ij cktkj ls dqN : dk ,d dsd [kjhnk vkSj
65 : dh ,d pkWdysV [kjhnhA ;fn mlus dqy 215 : [kpZ fd, rks crkvks dsd
33
dk ewY; D;k gS\

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

4. jes’k ds ikl ftruh iqLrds gS] eksgu ds ikl mldh nksxquh iqLrds gSA dqy iqLrdksa
dh la[;k crkvksA
5. jke dh eka us dqN jksfV;ka cukbZ muesa ls ';ke us 5 jksVh [kkyh crkbZ, 'ks"k fdruh
jksfV;ka cph\

Feedback and Valedictory Session

Feedback on performance, when effective, is widely considered to be integral to learning. People learn
faster and more deeply if they know what the strengths and weaknesses of their performance are and
most importantly, how to improve future performance. So at last participants were asked for giving
feedback on the happening of last three days.

“It was great show and inspired us that how we can improve the teaching practices through using
different approaches and going in depth of content. We got source of information and linkage, even
learnt how they can be used in interesting way” One of participants said.

“It was an excellent presentation from all aspect of capacity building and knowledge enhancement.”
Another participant pointed out.

“It was greatest experience for me by far. All the participants respected each other and worked together,
it generated the health and ultimate learning atmosphere” Facilitator said.

Participants also filled the two pages format in which they need to rate the sessions and put their
comments.

At last again Abhishek led the group and shared future work plan with participants.

“It was part I (basics of Algebra) another workshop will be held with you soon on part – II (Advanced
Algebra)” he stated and proposed 5 methods to carry forward this engagement.

 Class Room Programs - ……………………………………………(need to add something)

 Assignment – a set of assignment was given to all on which they were need to work before
beginning of part – II (For detail please see Annex – 3) 34
 Mentoring and working together – participants invite the RPs whenever they teach Algebra to
students so that the suitable pedagogy can be developed for students of respective schools.

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

 Access to Resources – We have opened the Block Activity Centre at each block. There will be
library and computer with internet service (hopefully, will start from on last week of October).
Any of you come and access the resources.
 Forming informal Group (Teacher forum) – Mr. Anil, Participant and member of VTF, Niwai
introduced the principals of VTF.

At the end, he extended Vote of thanks to the participants and facilitators for making the consultation a
successful one.

35

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Part III

Annexures

1. Agenda

The workshop plan is as follows:

Work plan for Algebra workshop (24th to 26th September, 2012)

First day-24thSeptember, 2012

S.No. Time Content of sessions Facilitator
1. 10:00 AM-10:30 AM Registration Dinesh
2. 10:30 AM-11:00 AM Introduction with Participants Hanuman & Dinesh
3. 11:00 AM-11:30 AM Agenda sharing Hanuman & Dinesh
4. 11:30 AM-1:30 PM Hanuman & Ashish

I. History of Algebra

 Developmental Stages in Algebra

 Evolution of Algebra in different

civilization

5. 1:30 PM- 2:30 PM Lunch break

6. 2:30 PM- 2:45 PM Warm up activity Dinesh
7. 2:45 PM- 5:00 PM Hanuman & Ashish

II. What Algebra Is…?

 Generalization of Arithmetical
Ideas (Algebraic Thinking)

III. Need, Importance & difficulties in

Learning Algebra
Ashish &
 Why Is Algebra Important to Dharmendra
Learn…? 36
 Difficulties in Learning Algebra

8. 8:00 PM- 9:00 PM Movie

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

Second day-25thSeptember, 2012

1. 9:00 AM-9:30 AM Assembly
2. 9:30 AM-10:00 AM Recap Hanuman
3. 10:00 AM-12:00 AM Dinesh &
Dharmendra
IV. Basic Mathematics for Algebra

 Integers

 Fractional Numbers

 Decimal Numbers

 Order of Basic Operations with

Numbers

 Ratio & Proportions

 Unit Cancellations & Conversions

 Prime Factorizations

 HCF & LCM

 Patterns

 Basic Geometrical Shapes

 Powers & Scientific Notations

4. 12:00 Noon-1:30 PM v. Text analysis(NCERT ,SCERT & private Vinod & Dinesh
publication) based on-
 Concept of unknown
 Previous knowledge
 Importance of learning
 Activities
 Methodology & concept flow

5. 1:30 PM- 2:30 PM Lunch break

6. 2:30 PM- 2:45 PM Warm up activity Vinod
7. 2:45 PM- 3:45 PM Ashish & Dinesh

Vi. Introduction to Algebra

37
 Understanding of unknown using
Patterns

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

 Application of Variables in Common

rules

 Expressions containing Variables -

Algebraic Expression

 Terms of an Expression

 Algebraic Expressions - Monomial,

Binomial, Trinomials & Polynomials

8. 3:45 PM- 5:00 PM Vii. Class room problems related to algebra Dharmendra &
 Identification of problems Hanuman

 Analysis of problems
9. 8:00 PM- 9:00 PM Movie
Third day-26thSeptember, 2012
1. 9:00 AM-9:30 AM Assembly
2. 9:30 AM-10:00 AM Recap Dinesh
3. 10:00 AM-11:30 AM Dinesh & Vinod

Viii. Operations with Algebraic Expressions &

their Properties

 Addition in Algebraic Expressions

 Subtraction in Algebraic Expressions

4. 11:30 AM-11:45 AM Tea Break

5. 11:45 AM- 12:45 PM
Dharmendra &
IX. Operations with Algebraic Expressions & Hanuman
their Properties

 Multiplication in Algebraic Expressions

38

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

6. 12:45 PM- 1:30PM Ashish & Hanuman

X. Linear Equations in One Variable

 What is an Equation?

 Setting Up of an Equation for a given

Situation & Vice-Versa

 Solution of Linear Equations in One

Variable

7. 1:30 PM- 2:30 PM Lunch break

8. 2:30 PM- 2:45 PM Warm up activity Dharmendra

9. 2:45 PM- 4:00 PM Ashish & Dinesh

XI. Linear Equations in One Variable

 Application of Simple Equations to

Practical Situations

10. 4:00 PM- 4: 30 PM Written feedback Hanuman & Dinesh

11. 4:30 PM- 5:00 PM Over all consolidation & further strategy Abhishekji

2. List of participants –

S. Name of Participants School Block Mobile No.

No.
1 Ram Sahay Mali GUPS, Ghati Malpura 9667703917

2 Vijay Bhisht GUPS, Sirohi Deoli 9529254165

3 Vikram Singh GUPS, Gadoli Uniyara 9667041617

4 Ratan Lal Yogi GUPS, Anawarpura Tonk 9772828252

5 Ramratan Khatik GUPS, Mandawar Tonk 9680766711

39
6 Anil Kumar Gupta Banasthali Vidyapith, Niwai 9414543762

7 Ravi Jain Banasthali Vidyapith, Niwai 9887466548

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk

 Three Days Residential Workshop
September 26, 2012

8 Sarika Goyal Banasthali Vidyapith, Niwai 9887777167

9 Aamir Rahman Regional, SSS, Tonk Tonk 9214486444

10 Faiyyajjudin Shekh GUPS, Bajoliya Uniyara 9829961079

11 Ramesh Chand Vijay GSS, Kassir Deoli 9414841736

12 Kishan Lal Balai GUPS, Saroli Deoli 9829883418

13 Kalu Ram Mali GUPS, Bapunagar Malpura 9887795273

14 Anil Kumar GUPS, Bileda Malpura 9982561876

3. Assignment –

 Pkj dh vo/kkj.kk lh[kus ds fy, ge d{kk d{k es dkSu dkSu ls u;s rjhds
btkn dj ldrs gS\
 Ckhtxf.kr esa lkekU;hdj.k dh vo/kkj.kk ds fy, ,sls dkSu dkSu ls u;s
rjhds ge d{kk d{k es btkn dj ldrs gS\
 chtxf.kr es CkPpsa fdl fdl izdkj dh xyfr;kW djrs gS vkSj muds ihNs
D;k dkj.k gks ldrs gS mudh tkWp iMrky djh tk;s vkZSj mUgs nwj djus
ds fy, D;k xfrfof/k;kW btkn dh tk ldrh gS\
 ,slh dkSu dkSu lh igsfy;kW gks ldrh gS ftUgs d{kk d{k es chtxf.kr ds
ifjp; ds nkSjku mi;ksx fy;k tk ldrk gS\
 Ckhth; O;tadks ds ;ksx ,oa O;odyu dh vo/kkj.kk ds fy, ge d{kk d{k
es dkSu dkSu ls u;s rjhdks dks btkn fd;k tk ldrk gS\

40

Azim Premji foundation, District Institute Tonk