What is algebraic activity? Consideration of 9-10 year olds learning to solve linear equations

This paper tries to rise issues about what constitutes algebraic activity through looking at number of episodes from a series of three lessons taught to 9-10 year olds using the software Grid Algebra[1]. From different viewpoints the work the students achieved could be viewed as anything from impressive algebraic activity after relatively short time of teaching, to feeling as if no algebraic activity took place at all. The aim of the paper is to raise issues rather than come to a particular position. It ends up highlighting the fact that such viewpoints are the result of us considering certain things are important and to encourage pursuit of what those are and why we give them that significance.