Foundations
Integers · Order of Operations · Distributive Property · Combining Like Terms
A K12 Focus Project • Built from a Real Classroom Need
Step-by-Step Algebra: a practical solution to a problem I saw firsthand.
After retiring as a K–12 technology director, I returned to the classroom to teach Algebra 1. I quickly discovered that, despite all the technology available, it was not helping many of my students understand the thinking behind the mathematics.
My students needed the work slowed down into short, visible steps. I could not find the tool I wanted, so I built it. Step-by-Step Algebra has grown into a collection of interactive browser-based activities that guide students through one mathematical decision at a time.
This project reflects how I approach K12 Focus: identify an important problem, build a practical solution, and improve it continuously. Today I am applying that same approach to helping school districts use organizational knowledge more effectively.
What the Algebra 1 Toolkit Covers
35 focused practice tools covering the major skills students encounter throughout Algebra 1.
Equations
One-Step · Two-Step · Multi-Step · Variables on Both Sides · Formulas · Absolute Value
Inequalities
One-Step · Two-Step · Compound Inequalities
Functions & Linear Relationships
Function Notation · Domain & Range · Slope · Graphing Lines · Writing Linear Equations · Parallel & Perpendicular Lines · Scatter Plots · Linear Word Problems · Transformations
Systems
Substitution · Elimination · Systems Word Problems
Polynomials & Factoring
Polynomial Operations · Factoring Trinomials · Special Cases
Quadratics
Solving by Factoring · Quadratic Formula
Exponents & Scientific Notation
Exponential Functions · Exponent Rules · Scientific Notation
Radicals
Simplifying Square Roots
The full toolkit is organized in a suggested teaching sequence, with each activity designed to slow the process down and show the mathematics one clear step at a time.
Free complete activity
Test Drive Step-by-Step Algebra
Don't just read about the toolkit. Try a complete activity from the same collection teachers receive.
Linear Word Problems
This browser-based activity slows down the thinking behind linear word problems. Students move from understanding the question to identifying the starting value and rate of change, writing y = mx + b, using the equation, comparing situations, and explaining answers in context.
- 8 levels from guided practice through mixed review
- No student account, login, or rostering
- Runs directly in a modern browser
- Designed for intervention, reteaching, review, or independent practice
Every toolkit activity includes a teacher-ready PDF guide. The guide provides the student link and QR code, skills covered, classroom-use ideas, teaching notes, setup directions, and other information a teacher needs to put the activity to work quickly.
Preview of the two-page teacher guide included with this free activity.
Like the approach? The complete Algebra 1 Toolkit includes 35 focused activities organized across the major skills students encounter throughout Algebra 1.
Designed to fit how teachers actually work.
The tools are intentionally simple because classroom time is limited. A teacher should be able to find the activity, share the link, and let students practice without a long orientation, a roster import, or a software implementation meeting.
Good for intervention and review
Use the tools when students need the same skill slowed down, repeated, and clarified without requiring the teacher to create another custom activity from scratch.
Good for independent practice
Students can work through levels at their own pace while the teacher circulates, answers questions, or works with a small group.
Good for 1:1 classrooms
Each tool runs in the browser, making it easy to use on Chromebooks, laptops, or classroom devices without requiring installation, student accounts, or special software.
Good for teacher sanity
The goal is practical support: fewer directions to explain, fewer setup barriers, and more time focused on the math conversation. It feels like a classroom tool because it was built from classroom experience.
School and district access
Simple pricing for Algebra 1 teachers.
The direct school or district price is designed to be affordable enough for small districts while still supporting ongoing development.
$100 per teacher
School-year access for the Algebra 1 Step-by-Step Digital Practice Toolkit.
What schools receive
- Teacher access to the current Algebra 1 toolkit
- Student activity links that can be shared in an LMS or classroom page
- No student logins or roster setup
- A complete free activity teachers can test before purchasing
- New and updated activities as the toolkit grows
- Support from a former Algebra 1 teacher and K–12 technology director
Interested in the Algebra 1 toolkit?
Try the free Linear Word Problems activity above, then email Tom if you would like access to the complete Algebra 1 toolkit or want to discuss school or district use.