Linear Equation Graphing Math Challenge

A small-group or independent mathematical list of graphing challenges using linear equations. This resource gives learners opportunities to push their understanding of how the coordinate plane works and how the equations we write can manipulate the lines graphed upon that plane. Learners will explore the importance of slope, how that can affect perpendicular and parallel lines, and what is required to draw a line through a specific point.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

This resource contains:
-> Instructions for implementation
-> 1-page of exploration
-> Suggestions for best practices of instruction

STORY

After my students got a basic understanding of how the coordinate plane works, memorized vocabulary like origin and quadrant, and leaned what a y = x + 1 graph looked like, they were hungry for more. Then this activity was born to challenge them and give them more exposure to graphs. Challenge your students to push their understanding of how equations work and start some good algebra classroom discussions before they even hit their first algebra course.

IMPLEMENTATION

This resource provides a page of graphing challenges which can be achieved only through equations of lines that learners test and confirm. It’s implementation has a variety of possibilities. This activity can be a great intro to a further discussion on point-slope and slope-intercept form. It could be used as extra practice, an extension, or even as a small group differentiated instruction activity. More information to implement the activity in the file.

POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS

Continue your student’s exploration of how words, equations, tables, and graphs are related with The Fantastic Four of Algebra Exploration.

MATERIALS/PREREQUISITES

Besides this resource, you may require:
-> Computers with Internet accessibility