TRAINER IN ACTION
TEACHER TRAINING RESOURCES AND MATERIALS PLC FACILITATORS MATERIALS


MSTP HOME | ALGEBRA 6-8 | EQUATIONS

Overview: Solving Equations

Solving equations and inequalities account for a large portion of the algebra standards. This training day will focus on difference between two approaches, traditional and function. The traditional approach would view the variable x in an equation like 5x – 7 = 3x + 9 as an unknown. The function approach views the two expressions as functions and the x as the independent variable for two functions in which the solution can be seen graphically as the intersection of two lines.

    IN THIS SESSION TEACHERS:
  • Learn the different methods that children use to solve linear equations.
  • Learn how to select examples to push kids from less sophisticated methods (i.e. guess and check) to more algebraic methods.
  • Learn a deeper meaning for properties of equations.


Standards Specifically Addressed
    MINNESOTA ACADEMIC STANDARDS
  • Grade 7: Represent real-world and mathematical situations using equations with variables. Solve equations symbolically, using the properties of equality. Also solve equations graphically and numerically. Interpret solutions in the original context.
  • Grade 8: Represent real-world and mathematical situations using equations and inequalities involving linear expressions. Solve equations and inequalities symbolically and graphically. Interpret solutions in the original context.

    NCTM PROCESS STANDARDS:
  • Problem Solving
  • Representation
  • Reasoning and Proof