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Mathematics · Grade 8

Model, Explain and Prepare for Algebra

This capstone pulls the year together for algebra. Learners build linear models from descriptions, tables and two points, solve and critique linear equations (including ones with no or infinitely many solutions), and model real choices with systems of equations. They then use the Pythagorean theorem in context, critique predictions made far outside the data, and retrieve exponent, scientific-notation and function skills from earlier in the year.

  • 4 lessons
  • About 100 minutes
  • Grade 8 algebra readiness check: 11 questions
  • Ways to answer: choose an answer, type a fraction, draw a graph, plot points, match pairs and type a number
See plans Included with Family, Teacher and School plans. Open in PlayOwl

What learners will discover

  • Build a linear model from a description, a table or two points, interpret its rate of change and initial value, and choose a useful representation.
  • Solve linear equations with rational coefficients and variables on both sides, find and fix errors in worked solutions, and decide whether an equation has one, no or infinitely many solutions.
  • Model a situation with a system of two linear equations, solve it by graphing, substitution or reasoning, and interpret the solution in context.
  • Apply the Pythagorean theorem and linear data models in context, critique predictions made far outside the data, and retrieve earlier Grade 8 skills (exponents, scientific notation, functions).

Lessons

  1. Linear models from contexts 9 steps6 practiceabout 25 min
  2. Equations: solve, check and critique 8 steps5 practiceabout 25 min
  3. Systems that model choices 8 steps5 practiceabout 24 min
  4. Explain, critique and retrieve 8 steps5 practiceabout 26 min
  5. Grade 8 algebra readiness check 11 questions at the end

Keep exploring

Games to practice with

  • Number-Line HopHelp the frog hop to the right number — from counting to negative fractions.
  • Algebra BalanceKeep the scale level and the equation true, step by step.
  • Function FactoryFeed the machine, crack its rule and predict what comes out.

More 8th grade math

Guide for grown-ups