Equation Clocks - Rich Assessment Task

In this FUN task, students create an algebra clock where equations are used instead of numbers for each hour. Students can keep their clock, or give it as a gift!

INCLUDED:
• pdf and Word (.docx) format so you can edit or tweak as you wish.
• Lesson Plan
• Smart Notebook file to accompany the lesson from beginning to end. (Minds On intro, Examples, rubric template to co-construct criteria with students)
• Student Handout with instructions, examples, answer template to complete and hand in. (The student can keep the actual clock... you just need the work!)
• Detailed Rubric with criteria for 4 levels
• Exemplar Clock Pictures - level 3 and 4 clocks to help students construct success criteria

Their knowledge of solving equations, simple and multi-step, through applying opposite operations is solidified and thoroughly tested as they work backwards and forwards to create and check their equations.

I found some great $3 clocks at a dollar store! Just make sure you are able to take them apart and reassemble them with a new background face inserted. I hope you enjoy this activity with your grade 8 or 9 class as much as I did with mine! Thanks, CalfordMath


Learning Goals:
• Apply inverse (or opposite) operations to an equality (equation) to isolate the variable.
• Simplify algebraic expressions (distribute, collect like terms, clear fractions by LCD or cross multiplying, etc.)
• Understand what it means for a value to be the solution to an equation (i.e. satisfy the equation.)

Common Core State Standards:
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.EE.C.7.B
Solve linear equations with rational number coefficients, including equations whose solutions require expanding expressions using the distributive property and collecting like terms.
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.CED.A.1
Create equations and inequalities in one variable...
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.REI.A.1
Explain each step in solving a simple equation as following from the equality of numbers asserted at the previous step, starting from the assumption that the original equation has a solution. Construct a viable argument to justify a solution method.

(Ontario, Canada)
Grade 9 Academic, MPM1D.NA2 - Manipulate numerical and polynomial expressions, and solve first-degree equations.

-NA2.1
simplify numerical expressions involving integers and rational numbers, with and without the use of technology
-NA2.3
relate their understanding of inverse operations to squaring and taking the square root, and apply inverse operations to simplify expressions and solve equations
-NA2.7
solve first-degree equations, including equations with fractional coefficients, using a variety of tools and strategies.