MyMathKidK-8 Curriculum
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Algebraic Thinking

Develop algebraic reasoning from patterns to equations and functions.

11
Topic Areas
54
Total Lessons
6
Grade Levels

Algebraic Thinking, grade by grade

Taught from Kindergarten through Grade 8. Each grade band below lists the skills its lessons teach, with one real problem from that band solved step by step.

Kindergarten–Grade 2

Taught through Patterns (Kindergarten) — 4 lessons.

Worked example · Kindergarten Patterns

??

Fill in the missing terms

  1. Find the part that repeats: star, square, square. The pattern says it again and again.
  2. Split the row into groups of 3: (star, square, square) (star, square, square) (?, ?, …).
  3. Fill in the question marks so every group matches (star, square, square): a new group starts: (star, square, …).
  4. So the missing shapes are star, square.

Answer: star, square

More Kindergarten patterns

Grades 3–5

Taught through Patterns (Grade 4) and Expressions (Grade 5) — 8 lessons.

Worked example · Grade 4 Patterns

40 → 2048 → 2856 → 36Rule: −?

Fill in the missing terms

  1. Compare each input with its output: 40 − 20 = 20, 48 − 28 = 20, 56 − 36 = 20. Each output is 20 less than its input, so the rule is − 20.
  2. So the missing rule number is 20.

Answer: 20

More Grade 4 patterns

Grades 6–8

Taught through Expressions (Grades 6–7), Equations (Grades 6–7), Linear Equations (Grade 8), Functions (Grade 8), Exponents (Grade 8) and Radicals (Grade 8) — 42 lessons.

Worked example · Grade 7 Equations

Solve: 8(x + 9) = 120

  1. Distribute the 8: 8 × x + 8 × 9 = 8x + 72, so 8x + 72 = 120.
  2. Subtract 72 from both sides: 8x = 120 − 72 = 48.
  3. Divide both sides by 8: x = 48 ÷ 8 = 6.
  4. Check: 8 × (6 + 9) = 120 ✓ So x = 6.

Answer: 6

More Grade 7 equations

Explore Other Domains

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Number Sense

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Operations

½

Fractions & Decimals

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Geometry

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Measurement

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Data & Statistics

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Ratios & Proportions

Frequently Asked Questions

When do kids start learning algebra?

Algebraic thinking begins much earlier than most parents realize. Kindergarteners learn patterns, first graders solve missing addend problems (5 + __ = 8), and by 5th grade students work with variables and expressions. Formal algebra with equations and functions is the focus of 7th-8th grade math.

How can I prepare my child for algebra?

Strong arithmetic fluency (especially fractions and negative numbers) is the best preparation. Practice solving for unknowns in simple equations, identify patterns in number sequences, and encourage flexible thinking about numbers. Students who struggle with algebra almost always have gaps in earlier math fundamentals.

Why do kids struggle with algebra?

The most common cause is weak arithmetic foundations, especially with fractions, negative numbers, and order of operations. Algebra requires abstract thinking—using letters instead of numbers—which is a major cognitive shift. Students also struggle when they've memorized procedures without understanding why they work.

Need help finding the right level?

Take our placement quiz to find exactly where your child should start.