Towards a characterization of early algebra from the analysis of the contemporary curricula of early childhood education and primary education

Abstract

This article discusses the incorporation of early algebra in the curricula of Early Childhood and Primary Education in the United States, Australia, Singapore and Chile is analyzed. Based on the content analysis method, a comparative study has been made and the first categories of knowledge have been established to characterize early algebra: 1) Early Childhood Education: experimentation with elements or objects based on the recognition of attributes to establish relationships, seriations based on patterns of repetition (identification, construction and representation) and description of qualitative and quantitative changes; 2) Primary Education: understanding different types of relationships and patterns, using algebraic symbols and mathematical models to represent mathematical situations, understanding change and using variables to determine a constant or unknown. It is concluded that it is necessary for teacher training programs to include this knowledge to adequately articulate it in the two educational stages.