Connections Between Expressions, Equations, Models, and Coordinates
EXPRESSION- An expression is a group of numbers, variables, and operations. An expression does not have an equal sign.
EXAMPLE; 2x + 6
EQUATION- An equation is a mathematical statement showing that two expressions are equal. An equation always has an equal sign.
EXAMPLE- 2x + 6 = 20
Mathematical model - A mathematical model uses numbers, expressions, equations, tables, or graphs to represent a real-life situation.
Example : If an uber charges $10 plus $3 for every mile, the equation y = 3x + 10 can model the total cost.
Coordinate- A coordinate shows the location of a point on a coordinate plane. Coordinates are written as an ordered pair.
Example: (7, 8)
The first number represents the x-coordinate, and the second number represents the y-coordinate.
Which of the following is an expression?
What does the point (4, 2) tell you?
What symbol does every equation have?
Description of the activity:
This activity introduces students to expressions, equations, mathematical models, and coordinates. Students learn the meaning of each term, read examples, and answer questions to check their understanding. The coordinate plane picture helps students connect the vocabulary to a visual example.
Classroom use:
I would use this activity when introducing expressions, equations, and the coordinate plane. Students can read the definitions, answer the questions, and use the graph to identify coordinates and understand how equations and points are connected.
