functions
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Intro to Concept of Functions
Functions are perhaps the most prevalent and important topic covered in secondary math, aside from maybe 1 variable linear equations. The concept of a mathematical function is challenging for many students. This post provides details about a meaning making approach to introducing functions. Overview The introduction is presented on a Google Jamboard, to allow for…
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Introduction to Unit Cost (Unit Rate)
Unit rate (e.g., hamburger meat on sale for $2.39 per pound or you make $13 per hour) is an incredibly important topic in middle and high school. First, unit rates and unit costs are common in life. Second, in the Common Core State Standards math categories you can see that Ratios and Proportions (which includes…
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Introduction to Unit Rate using Unit Cost
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K-12 Math Education is a Line of Dominoes
Critical dominoes in math education start falling in 6th and 7th grade with the last ones falling in college. If you have a student who struggles with math and is entering or returning to middle school, now is the time to intervene to avoid more serious issues related to math education in the future. If…
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Function Notation for Algebra
Below is a video of a lesson I recorded on function notation using the Explain Everything app. The lesson starts by addressing the concept of function notation by connecting it to the use of the notation “Dr.” as in Dr. Nick of Simpson’s fame. The lesson builds on prior knowledge throughout with a focus on…
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Function Notation
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Functions Introduction Video Lesson
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Relations Introduction Video Lesson
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Graphs Representing Variable Relationships
Students often struggle with the jump from 1 variable situations to 2 variable situations, i.e. functions. Visuals are an effective way to present concepts which may be abstract, e.g. functions. Graphs and visuals in general are designed to allow a big picture view of a concept. The photo above shows mileage and price for Honda Odyssess…
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Kim and Kanye are Prior Knowledge (with scaffolding)
This is a portion of scaffolded notes I provided for a lesson on functions. This shows two key strategies I often employ: scaffolding and connections to prior knowledge. The scaffolding is seen in how blanks are provided for students to fill in key information. This saves time on copying notes while still engages students in…