Education Development Center
Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators
If the fractions don't have a common denominator, make them have one. Learners first read and analyze a conversation of pupils trying to add 2/5 and 1/2. They compare the process of adding fractions to the process of adding quantities...
EngageNY
The Long Division Algorithm
Two methods are always better than one! The eighth installment in this series asks pupils to convert decimals to fractions using two approaches. Individuals first use the more traditional approach of long division and then use reverse...
Shodor Education Foundation
Algorithm Discovery with Venn Diagrams
Here is a lesson that takes an interesting approach to analyzing data using box and whisker plots. By using an applet that dynamically generates Venn diagrams, the class forms a strategy/algorithm for guessing the rule that fits...
EngageNY
The Division of Polynomials
Build a true understanding of division of polynomials. Learners use their knowledge of multiplying polynomials to create an algorithm to divide polynomials. The area model of multiplication becomes the reverse tabular method of division.
Curated OER
It's Not All Greek to Me
Learners find out the meaning for prefixes used in math vocabulary. By dissecting words used in everyday math, they figure out what the prefix indicates and what the word means. A variety of well-organized worksheets and activities...
Curated OER
Call it "Macaroni"
Who knew there were so many fun educational opportunities featuring pasta? Scholars read a brief informational text about the history of pasta (note that "macaroni" is spelled two different ways, so address this if kids are reading...
5280 Math
Go with the Flow
Round and round they go ... where they stop, only scholars will know. By writing systems of equations, classes determine the number of cars a roundabout can handle given specific constraints. Systems use up to six variables and become...
EngageNY
Comparing Methods—Long Division, Again?
Remember long division from fifth grade? Use the same algorithm to divide polynomials. Learners develop a strategy for dividing polynomials using what they remember from dividing whole numbers.
EngageNY
Dividing by (x – a) and (x + a)
Patterns in math emerge from seemingly random places. Learners explore the patterns for factoring the sum and differences of perfect roots. Analyzing these patterns helps young mathematicians develop the polynomial identities.
5280 Math
Capture the Points
Play a game of capture the points. Young scholars receive a number line with specific points graphed and must write an inequality that captures all the points. The second task of the algebra project is to write an inequality with...
Curated OER
Roman Bernardo: Solving Linear Equations
Mathematicians use an inquiry method to solve linear equations. In this linear equations lesson, students practice solving equations using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. They solve multi-step equations and equations...
Illustrative Mathematics
Interpreting a Division Computation
Mathematicians show their understanding of a division problem. If a student can apply long division to a pair of numbers and determine a quotient, what other factors and multiples become apparent? The example illustrates a simple...
Curated OER
Stochastic and Deterministic Modeling
Explore the difference between stochastic and deterministic modeling through programming. First have the class write algorithms for relatively simple tasks using pseudocode. Use the Python 2.7 program app to simulate Mendel's Pea Pod...
Curated OER
Multiplication Magic
Investigate multiplication problem solving strategies by working with base 10 blocks. Learners decompose problems with a Merlin the Magician theme. Multiple resources are provided.
EngageNY
The Power of Algebra—Finding Primes
Banks are responsible for keeping our financial information safe. Mathematics is what allows them to do just that! Pupils learn the math behind the cryptography that banks rely on. Using polynomial identities, learners reproduce the...
EngageNY
Rational and Irrational Numbers
Back to the basics: learning how to add numbers. The 17th installment of a 35-part module first reviews addition techniques for rational numbers, such as graphical methods (number line) and numerical methods (standard algorithm). It goes...
Google
Surveys and Estimating Large Quantities
Looking for an estimation activity a bit more involved than the typical "guess the number of jellybeans in the jar" game? Here, learners use a picture to estimate the number of people at a large event, look for potential problems with...
Illustrative Mathematics
Building toward fluency
Here is a great learning task that focuses on the development of areas in computational fluency including strategies in mental math. Young learners are guided through a list of addition expressions that help them visually understand the...
Curated OER
Folding strips of paper
Fifth graders need concrete experiences to introduce a unit on multiplying fractions by fractions. A strip of paper is used to create a number line and represent 5/6. It is folded first in half, and then in quarters. After unfolding,...
Curated OER
Fun With Fractals
Students use fractals to analyze nature. In this geometry instructional activity, students work in groups using technology and math to communicate. They identify where in the real world fractal can be seen.
Curated OER
What's Up With the Weather?
Students examine raw data about temperatures throughout the world and record their observations. They work together to graph a specific year of data. They calculate an average temperature and discuss their findings.
Curated OER
Matrices: A Secret Weapon
Students perform operations with matrices. In this algebra instructional activity, students use cryptography and cryptanalysis to solve problems. They add, subtract, and multiply matrices.
Illustrative Mathematics
Zeroes and Factorization of a General Polynomial
These four problems will guide your class through the idea behind the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, which states that a polynomial of degree n has exactly n roots. Use the division algorithm and the definition of a zero/root of a...
Balanced Assessment
Disc-Ness
Transform your scholars into mathematicians as they develop their own geometric definition. The task asks individuals to compare cylindrical objects and create a definition for the disc-ness of each object. They may use any method and...