Teaching Through Example-Based Problem Solving (TEPS) in Early Algebra

This elementary mathematics resource outlines a pedagogical approach known as Teaching Through Example-Based Problem Solving (TEPS) and presents pre-service teachers with an effective way to instruct early algebra. Using contrasting cases to illustrate inverse relations and the basic properties of operations, it breaks down an often controversial "e;gatekeeper"e; for students' mathematical learning and strengthens their algebraic thinking.Conventional algebraic teaching often relies on a "e;show-and-tell"e; approach or focuses on surface-level questions, overlooking opportunities for student cognitive engagement and deep learning. Yet, TEPS integrates real-world contexts with concreteness fading and employs deep questioning to promote students' engagement and understanding. Each case in this illuminating book contains two lesson scripts or sub-cases: one illustrating the TEPS approach and the other demonstrating a more "e;traditional"e; approach, offering teachers opportunities to compare and optimize their own teaching. Ideal for use in pre-service elementary math methods courses, and for teacher professional development as a supplement to any elementary math textbook, this book and the TEPS approach empower teachers to meaningfully engage students in an often daunting subject area.