Big Ideas:
Any number, or algebraic expression can represent a range of numbers, a single number or a group of varying numbers.
Independent and dependent variables may have a proportional relationship, and that relationship can be used to predict unknowns and solve problems.
This lesson builds on students’ work with dependent and independent variables. This task looks at creating a map of Australia. Students are asked to create a table of data that can be used to ensure the accuracy of the map as it is created. Students will use the fact that the dependent and independent values vary proportionally in this problem context to complete the task. The mathematical concepts in this lesson build toward students’ future work with expressions, equations, and proportional reasoning in grades 6-8.
Vocabulary: direct proportion (direct variation)
Lesson plan