Movement, language and mathematics: an interplay on the journey towards confidence with formal notation

A mixed ability group of 21 9-10 year old students were taught over a three lesson period using the software Grid Algebra. They gained considerable confidence with reading formal algebraic notation over this time and a key feature was the blended space created whereby the notation could be read in terms of physical movements on a grid as well as mathematical operations. Three episodes from the lessons are discussed which exemplified the changing dynamic between movement, language and mathematics.