This book takes a theoretical perspective on the study of school algebra, in which both semiotics and history occur. The Methodological design allows for the interpretation of specific phenomena and the inclusion of evidence not addressed in more general treatments. The book gives priority to "meaning in use" over "formal meaning." These approaches and others of similar nature lead to a focus on competence rather than a user 's activity with mathematical language.

This book confronts the issue of how young people can find a way into the world of algebra. It represents multiple perspectives which include an analysis of situations in which algebra is an efficient problem-solving tool, the use of computer-based technologies, and a consideration of the historical evolution of algebra. The book emphasizes the situated nature of algebraic activity as opposed to being concerned with identifying students' conceptions in isolation from problem-solving activity.

This volume emphasizes the role of effective curriculum design, teaching materials, and pedagogy to foster algebra structure sense at different educational levels. Positing algebra structure sense as fundamental to developing students' broader mathematical maturity and advanced thinking, this text reviews conceptual, historical, cognitive, and semiotic factors, which influence the acquisition of algebra structure sense. It provides empirical evidence to demonstrate the feasibility of linking algebra structure sense to technological tools and promoting it amongst diverse learners. Didactic approaches include the use of adaptive digital environments, gamification, diagnostic and monitoring tools, as well as exercises and algebraic sequences of varied complexity. Advocating for a focus on both intuitive and formal knowledge, this volume will be of interest to students, scholars, and researchers with an interest in educational research, as well as mathematics education and numeracy.

This book confronts the issue of how young people can find a way into the world of algebra. It represents multiple perspectives which include an analysis of situations in which algebra is an efficient problem-solving tool, the use of computer-based technologies, and a consideration of the historical evolution of algebra. The book emphasizes the situated nature of algebraic activity as opposed to being concerned with identifying students' conceptions in isolation from problem-solving activity.

This book takes a theoretical perspective on the study of school algebra, in which both semiotics and history occur. The Methodological design allows for the interpretation of specific phenomena and the inclusion of evidence not addressed in more general treatments. The book gives priority to "meaning in use" over "formal meaning." These approaches and others of similar nature lead to a focus on competence rather than a user 's activity with mathematical language.