Algebra + Aerobics = Algebrobics

Applied Math Lesson

by Julie Stalling

Applied Math students have been graphing linear equations this week. Y = mX + b is known as the slope-intercept form of an equation. Y and X will always be there; m is the slope; b is the y-intercept.

We have used a lot of graph paper to get quality practice. However, there are many more kinesthetic activities to help improve understanding. Students started by plotting points. Then they learned to calculate slope by thinking about skiing in the mountains and using peg boards and golf tees to solve problems. Ask them about our rhyme and they will tell you “Slope is easy and fun, just remember rise over run.” Back to graph paper, they constructed their first lines with the help of post it notes and T tables. The following day, we played a little football to develop a concept of “intercept”. With this knowledge, students could use only two points to draw “quick graphs”.

Katie and Adam doing Algebrobics

When their confidence was building, applied math students were given their first opportunity to use those big graphing calculators. With step by step directions, they found success while entering y= equations on a TI-81 calculator.

Finally, to celebrate their knowledge, we went outside for Algebrobics! By using the cracks in the concrete we imagined that we were walking on graph paper. Partners were able to model ten different equations while they stood on the y-intercept and used their arms to show the slope of the line.

Listed below you can see the ten equations that students have now practiced on graph paper, on pegboards, on a graphing calculators and outside on the ground!