Curated OER
Writing Variable Expressions for Physical Models
Explore the concept of writing variable expressions by examining the similarities between expressions with numbers and expressions with variables. Emerging mathematicians determine rules for sequences and patterns before writing a rule...
Curated OER
Equations Lesson 1
Middle schoolers engage in a study of equations and how they are solved using algebraic methods. This overrides the fact of guessing as done in earlier grades. They cover the concept of inverse operations as the main way to manipulate...
Utah Education Network (UEN)
The Distributive Property For Numerical and Variable Expressions
Collaborate to research and share. Doesn't that sound great? Learners explore algebraic expressions, use Algeblocks to examine and compare numerical and variable expressions, and apply the distributive property. Examples and worksheets...
Curated OER
Using the Balance
Students determine the mass of various objects. In this integrated math and science lesson, students use an arm balance to compare a known object to a combination of washers with a fixed weight. Students record data, construct a bar...
Curated OER
TIMS, The Bouncing Ball: Math, Science, Measurement, Graphs, Variables
Learners determine the exact relationship between the height from which a ball is dropped and the distance that it rebounds.
Curated OER
Hands-On Equations: Teacher Notes
Math manipulatives are wonderful for demonstrating any number of mathematical concepts in a concrete and visual way. Learners review the addition property of equality and the zero property using a scale model kit (not shown). They...
EngageNY
Writing and Evaluating Expressions—Multiplication and Division
Don't table the resource on writing expressions for relationships in tables. Scholars investigate relationships between variables and write algebraic expressions involving multiplication and division. These expressions help solve...
Curated OER
Algebra: Evaluating Expressions Using Tiles
Sixth graders evaluate algebraic expressions. In this introduction to algebra lesson plan, 6th graders use manipulatives (algebra tiles) to solve problems involving one and two variables. Students apply this knowledge to real life...
Curated OER
Balance or Tilt?
Sixth graders investigate the concepts of a variable, constant, expressions, and equations. They solve problems which require the interpretation of expressions in and out of equations looking for solutions. Students also use a balance...
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Division (No Remainders)
Help young mathematicians build a solid understanding of division with this base ten block activity. With the help of these popular math manipulatives, children model different math problems in order to reinforce the connection between...
National Security Agency
Equations and Expressions
Learners demonstrate their knowledge pictorially, concretely, and abstractly in this unit meant to last three hours over three days. Using hands-on activities, manipulatives, real-world applications, and problem solving, learners write...
Teach Engineering
The Fibonacci Sequence and Robots
What better way to introduce the idea of a sequence than with robots! An educational lesson explains the classic Fibonacci sequence before pupils build and program a robot to move. Additionally, the lesson challenges individuals to...
Mathematics Assessment Project
Shelves
Don't leave this task on the shelf — use it is assess middle schoolers understanding of patterns. Participants try to discover a pattern in the number of bricks and planks used to make shelves. They then match descriptions and equations...
CK-12 Foundation
Function Rules for Input-Output Tables: Soda Sugar Function Table
Examine the relationship between the input and output variables in a table of values. As learners build an input-output table using online manipulatives, they begin to identify patterns. They answer questions about these patterns and...
Curated OER
Graphing Pendulum Results
Sixth graders set up a pendulum experiment deciding which variable to manipulate (length of string or weight on the string). They create a hypothesis, collect necessary equipment, and write out each step of their experiment. They then...
Curated OER
Best lesson in the whole world!
Middle schoolers study the concept of fraction using mathematical reasoning. In this problem solving fraction lesson, students use various methods to explain their reasoning in solving fractions. Middle schoolers use a number of...
Curated OER
Variables and Patterns: Determining an appropriate scale while graphing
Sixth graders determine appropriate scales when graphing data. In this graphing lesson, 6th graders use an the applet "Graph It" to determine what is an appropriate scale for their data.
Curated OER
Introduction To Solving Equations
Use manipulatives (film cans and balance scales) to visualize and solve equivalent equations with your math class. After a lecture/demo, they utilize handouts and solve various equations using the methods learned.
Noyce Foundation
Boxes
Teach your class to think outside the box. Scholars use the concept of equality to solve a problem in the assessment task. They determine how to use a scale to identify the one box out of a set of nine boxes that is heavier than the others.
Curated OER
Three Squirrels and a Pile of Nuts
Middle schoolers solve story problems using a spreadsheet in combination with various problem-solving strategies. Working in teams of three, students create attempt to solve a story problem using three different methods; using...
Curated OER
Seesaw Balances
Students determine how the weights of 7 objects on a seesaw can vary and still be in balance. They also write equations in algebraic terms, how to change 3 variables in an equation expressed in algebraic terms to obtain the correct...
Curated OER
Help Young Mathematicians Write Their Way to Math Success
Clear and concise writing should be an integral part of learning mathematics.
Virginia Department of Education
Algebra Tiles and Solving Equations
Young mathematicians solve linear equations by drawing models of algebra tiles using colored pencils. To finish, they solve the same equations algebraically and check their answers using a graphing calculator.
Achieve
BMI Calculations
Obesity is a worldwide concern. Using survey results, learners compare local BMI statistics to celebrity BMI statistics. Scholars create box plots of the data, make observations about the shape and spread of the data, and examine the...