Waterloo Mathematics
Grade 7 Patterning and Algebra: Algebraic Expressions
Classmates solve 18 different problems that are mostly word problems that apply algebraic expressions. They draw different combinations of masses on a scale that would balance. They also simplify expressions and solve for x in a number...
PBS
Using Variables in Simple Equations
A Cyberchase clip shows Hacker creating a game show that uses a variable to find out how much power is produced by a gleamer bug. Follow the video with a lesson about using variables to solve equations. Terrific handouts and assessments...
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...
Arcademics
Four Wheel Fracas
A quick learning game challenges players to solve one-step addition and subtraction algebraic equations. Scholars play against several others, racing around the track in their four-wheeler, to see who can solve for a variable as fast...
Arcademics
Jumping Aliens
An alien-themed learning game challenges scholars to solve algebraic equations with exponents and variables using multiplication.
New Mexico State University
Curse Reverse
Build towers with algebraic expressions. Pupils use algebraic expressions to build towers that allow their players to navigate a series of rooms. Learners evaluate expressions using different values for the variables to create a pathway...
Curated OER
Who Wants to Win Millions?
Similar to the popular game Jeopardy, pre-algebra students will play to win. This game focuses on solving and writing simple equations using subtraction, multiplication, or addition. A great way to review for the big test!
EngageNY
Writing and Expanding Multiplication Expressions
Find out what's so standard about standard form. Scholars learn to write multiplication expressions with variables in the 10th lesson in a series of 36. They use different symbols for multiplication and translate between standard and...
Curated OER
Substitute into Simple Expressions
Learners simplify simple equations. Using a maze game, young mathematicians speculate about the size of different algebraic values and what other equivalent expressions might look like. It is a nice beginning activity for introducing...
Illustrative Mathematics
Busy Day
This activity gets at the heart of algebraic reasoning and setting up equations with one variable to solve real-world problems. The worksheet has only one problem, but it requires that learners first use their own reasoning capabilities...
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...
Curated OER
Figuring Out Equations With Figurines
Students inspect solving equations with one variable. Through the use of a scale balance, they examine the importance of equality in an equation. By playing a balance game with figurines and a scale, students discover methods of...
Curated OER
Writing Algebraic Expressions for Words
Students explore the concept of algebraic expressions. In this algebraic expressions lesson, students convert pictures and word problems into algebraic expressions. Students play a game where they tell the algebraic expression...
Wake Forest University
Authentic Activities for Connecting Mathematics to the Real World
Check out the handout from a presentation that contains a collection of high school algebra projects connecting a variety of mathematics to the real world. Activities range from simple probabilities to calculus. The activities can be...
Curated OER
The New Texas Two-Step
Sixth graders work with mathematical expressions by interpreting, analyzing and problem solving with them. In this two step algebraic problem solving lesson plan, 6th graders use algebra tiles to solve equations.
Curated OER
Guess the Age
Students explore functions using real world application. In this algebra lesson, students play a game as they apply concepts of function. They graph their findings and discuss it with the class.
Curated OER
Code Crackers
Students work in teams creating and posing math rules and trying to guess them using a formula controlled worksheet they create with Excel. Student pairs take turns to see who can crack the other's code the fastest.