Number sentence

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In mathematics education, a number sentence is typically an equation or inequality expressed using numbers and common symbols. The term is used in primary level mathematics teaching in the US[1], UK[2], Australia & New Zealand[3] and South Africa[4].

Contents

[edit] Usage

The term is used as means of asking students to write down equations using simple mathematical symbols (numerals, the four basic mathematical operators, equality symbol)[5]. Sometimes boxes or shapes are used to indicate unknown values. As such number sentences are used to introduce students to notions of structure and algebra prior to a more formal treatment of these concepts.

A number sentence without unknowns is equivalent to a logical proposition expressed using the notation of arithmetic.

[edit] Examples

A valid number sentence that is true: 3 + 4 = 7.

A valid number sentence that is false: 7 + 9 = 17.

A valid number sentence using a 'less than' symbol: 3 + 6 < 10.

An example from a lesson plan:

Some students will use a direct computational approach. They will carry out the addition 26 + 39 = 65, put 65 = 23 + □, and then find that □ = 42. [6]

[edit] See also

[edit] References

  1. ^ Show Me That Number Sentence
  2. ^ http://www.qca.org.uk/downloads/3420_maths_glossary_ks1_4.pdf
  3. ^ http://www.mceetya.edu.au/verve/_resources/SOL_Mathematics_2006.pdf
  4. ^ Mathematics Final
  5. ^ number sentence
  6. ^ Mathematics Continuum - Structure - Equivalence - Learning and Teaching Resources - Prep to Year 10 - Student Learning - Department of Education and Early Childhood Development