Solving the Unknown with Algebra

Grades 6-8

In Solving the Unknown with Algebra, an installment in the Expect the Unexpected With Math® series, students follow the adventures of Rick and Athena as they use algebra to solve real-world mysteries through powerful mathematical thinking.

Free Printable Math Lesson Plan
and Activities

• Poster (pdf)
• Teaching Guide and Activities (pdf)
• Bonus Worksheets (pdf)
• Take-Home Activity Pages (pdf)

Topics Covered

Solving the Unknown with Algebra is designed to supplement existing pre-algebra instruction in these areas:

• Solving for unknowns;
• Manipulating equations while keeping them in balance;
• Using formulas to solve real-world challenges; and
• Working with proportions, radicals and exponents.

Objectives

Students will:

• Understand that an equation works like a scale with the equal sign serving as the balancing point; that the equal sign means “is the same as” rather than “the answer to the problem is”; and that, like balancing weight on a scale, what is done to one side of an equation must be done to the other;

• Understand how scale keeps a map’s distances in proportion to real-world areas depicted in the map; use a map’s scale and coordinates to calculate distance; identify the variables in the formula d = r . t; and manipulate the formula to solve for variables;

• Be able to identify what interest is as it pertains to saving and investing; calculate simple and compound interest; and apply the compound interest formula (i.e., the growth and decay formula) to nonfinancial situations; and
• Understand what a square root is and that squares and square roots are inverse operations and can be used to manipulate equations as long as “whatever is done to one side of the equation is done to the other.”

Solving the Unknown with Algebra is aligned with NCTM standards.

About Expect the Unexpected With Math®

The dynamic lessons and activities in the Expect the Unexpected With Math® series use story lines that students find interesting to show them the fun and relevance of math. Motivate your students to achieve math success in the classroom and in real-world situations outside of school!

View the other installments in this series:

• The Power of Probability
• Setting the Stage with Geometry
• Conversions Rock – converting numbers to fractions and percents
• Bars, Lines, & Pies – graphing
• Shake, Rattle, & Roll – probability

TEACHERS!
Contact the Foundation at asa@actfnd.org for availability of printed materials or to inquire about an actuary presenting this program to your classroom.

ACTUARIES!

Use the Classroom Guide for Actuaries to present Solving the Unknown with Algebra to a classroom near you.