Algorithms: 

How We Can Use Them in the Real World

          Algorithms; the word may look technical, but using algorithms in math is a simple step-by-step process. Algorithms can be used with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems.

Solving a math problem using algorithms can be compared to baking a cake. Just as baking a cake requires one to follow steps, so too does an algorithm. Following each step is essential! If you skip a step when your baking a cake, your cake will not turn out. If you skip a step when solving algorithm your results may be flawed.

In this post, I am going to focus on the standard addition algorithm, which involves adding whole numbers in columns of ones, tens, hundreds, and so on, from right to left. When a column adds to a value of 10 or larger it carries over to the next column. The standard addition algorithm is the most widely used for solving mathematical equations.

Example of a Standard Addition Algorithm:

11

464                             The first step is to add the numbers in the ones                 

  78                              column. (The column furthest to the right). This      

+56                              has a total of 18. The 8 would be placed below the       

5 9 8                            one’s column, and the 1 will carry over into the tens    

                                    column.

The second step would be to add the numbers in the tens column. This column adds up to a total of 19. The 9 is placed below the tens column, and the 1 is carried over into the 100’s column.

The final step is to add the 100’s column. The total of this column adds up to be 5.

When teachers are introducing algorithms to their younger students, using manipulative's is necessary. Teachers can use a variety of items to teach algorithms such as, cubes, money, diagrams, place value mats, and counter coins. Below is an example of how teachers can use hands-on materials to teach students the concept of algorithms. Students will learn this important math concept through a visual, and tactile approach, ensuring that the learning experience is memorable and motivating.