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Algebra

Movie Lines

9-12
This lesson allows students to apply their knowledge of linear equations and graphs in an authentic situation. Students plot data points corresponding to the cost of DVD rentals and interpret the results.
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Algebra

Supreme Court Handshake

6-8
During this lesson, students will explore the handshake problem, a classic problem in mathematics that asks, "How many handshakes occur when n people shake hands with each other?" Groups work to determine how many handshakes take place among the nine Supreme Court justices, and then generalize to the number of handshakes in any size group. Students explore the problem using a verbal description, a table, a graph, a picture, and an algebraic formula.
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Algebra

Beyond Handshakes

6-8
Using spreadsheets, students will explore another pattern, that of the triangular numbers. This exploration will enhance students’ ability to generalize a pattern with variables.
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Measurement

How Long? How Wide? How Tall? How Deep?

3-5

In this lesson, students use historical nonstandard units (digits, hand, cubit, yard, foot, pace, fathom) to estimate the lengths of common objects and then measure using modern standard units. They will discover the usefulness of standardized measurement units and tools.

Many students have not had enough experiences with nonstandard units and therefore have an incomplete understanding of measurement. This lesson provides more of these experiences as well as a bridge into familiar standard units of measuring length. Interested teachers could also connect this lesson to information about measurement in many ancient cultures.

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Geometry

Tetrahedral Kites

6-8, 9-12
Each student constructs a tetrahedron and describes the linear, area and volume measurements using non‑traditional units of measure. Four tetrahedra are combined to form a similar tetrahedron whose linear dimensions are twice the original tetrahedron. The area and volume relationships between the first and second tetrahedra are explored, and generalizations for the relationships are developed.
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Algebra

Mix It Up

9-12
In this lesson, students will use two colors of beads to form two different percent mixes, and then form a final mix using scoops from the two mixes. From this tactile start, students will develop and use a formula to determine the final percent mix from two source mixtures.
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Algebra

Algebra in Balance

6-8
Students use the Balance Pans Applet- Expressions Tool to explore algebraic expressions. They determine if algebraic expressions are equal. They balance pans to solve a system of equations and use graphing to find the solutions to a system of equations.
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Algebra

Balancing Shapes

6-8
Students will balance shapes on the pan balance applet to study equality, essential to understanding algebra. Equivalent relationships will be recognized when the pans balance, demonstrating the properties of equality.
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Algebra

Balancing Algebraic Understanding

6-8
Using a balance in the classroom is a first step to algebraic understanding. Use this pan balance (numbers) applet to practice the order of operations in simplifying numerical expressions and to demonstrate the conventions of using algebraic logic in simplifying expressions.
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Data Analysis and Probability

Barbie Bungee

6-8, 9-12
The consideration of cord length is very important in a bungee jump—too short, and the jumper doesn’t get much of a thrill; too long, and ouch! In this lesson, students model a bungee jump using a Barbie® doll and rubber bands. The distance to which the doll will fall is directly proportional to the number of rubber bands, so this context is used to examine linear functions.