Grade 7 Unit 7 The Wonder of Algebra
In this unit, your child will be introduced to Algebra as both a story of human discovery and a practical mathematical tool. The lessons weave together history, biography, and hands-on practice so that students see Algebra not as abstract symbols but as a living language of balance, logic, and possibility.
They will:
- Review necessary prerequisites: order of operations, exponents, and integers to ensure a strong foundation.
- Learn about the origins of Algebra, beginning with Diophantus in ancient Greece and al-Khwarizmi in Persia, and explore how Algebra grew as a tool for solving problems with missing variables.
- Explore six key aspects of Algebra: variables, evaluating equations, combining like terms, distributive property, equivalent expressions, and seven types of equations.
- Practice solving one-step, two-step, and multi-step equations, gradually building fluency and confidence.
- Record their learning in a portfolio, creating visual summaries, diagrams, and personal reflections that reinforce mathematical understanding.
- Reflect on the theme of balance, both in solving equations and in life, supported by poetry, verse, and encouragement pages.
- Complete a Flex Week biographical research project on a great mathematician such as Euclid, al-Khwarizmi, Pythagoras, or Emmy Noether, connecting human stories with mathematical discovery.
Children discover that Algebra is not just about solving for x—it is about learning a language of balance that has shaped human thought for centuries. Through stories, practice, and projects, they see themselves as part of this unfolding journey of discovery.
This purchase includes one digital curriculum unit with 15 days of lesson plans and 5 days of flexible projects. This unit will inspire you with beautiful images, clear instructions and exciting project ideas.
And that's not all. You will also gain access to the Wonder Hub, which includes supporting documents, videos, resources, and community.
The Wonder of Algebra
Learning Standards
Concept 1: Decimals, fractions and percentages are used to represent and describe parts and wholes of numbers.
Concept 2: Computational fluency and flexibility with numbers extend to operations with integers and decimals.
Concept 3: Linear relations can be represented in many connected ways to identify regularities and make generalizations.
Connections: This unit's primary focus is building a solid foundation in Algebra. Students will begin by reviewing essential mathematical concepts, such as the order of operations, exponents, and integers. The core of the unit then delves into six critical areas of Algebra:
- Variables
- Evaluating equations
- Combining like terms
- Distributive property
- Equivalent expressions
- Seven types of equations
Social Studies
Concept: Religious and cultural practices that emerged during this period have endured and continue to influence people.
Connection: This unit also introduces students to Algebra's historical and cultural significance. They will learn about its origins, the mathematicians who developed it, and how it has influenced modern-day mathematics and beyond. The Social Studies component is woven into the Flex Week, where students undertake a biographical research project on one of the founders of Algebra. This project allows students to connect the mathematical concepts they are learning with the historical and cultural context in which they were developed, deepening their understanding and appreciation of the subject.
Through this interdisciplinary approach, students gain mathematical skills and a broader understanding of the historical and cultural importance of the subject.