Computer and projector, Mobile devices for students, Speakers
Activity Description
The first activity is called MathCaching. Students must solve algebra problems in order to complete the URL and move on to the next problem. There are ten questions and students receive a certificate if they can answer all 10 questions correctly.
Screenshot of Algebra 1 resources including PreAlgeCaching and AlgeCaching Games
The second activity, called Algebra Antics, can be used in the classroom as a "Jeopardy" style game for Algebra review; a class activity where students, working alone or in groups, must show how to get the correct answer; a modified Bingo; or as an independent review. There are two different games. The first one covers Algebra Antics, Solving Equations, Graphing, Statistics, and Functions. The second game covers Exponents, Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, Systems, and Other Stuff. Both games are geared to Algebra 1 students.
There are many math activities covering Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Trigonometry, Calculus and Differential Equations; however, some require a paid subscription. Look for free activities that are listed as open.
Preparation
Make sure that the site is not blocked at your school
Review the different games, MathCaching and Algebra Antics and then determine the one you want to use in you classroom
Preview the site and see how the interactive activity works.
Activity: Algebra Detective Display three quick review problems:
x + 5 = 12
3x = 21
2x + 4 = 10
Students solve individually.
Then discuss:
What strategy did you use?
Which problem was easiest?
Why is algebra useful?
Real-Life Connection Ask:
When might someone use algebra at work?
How does problem-solving help in daily life?
Possible answers:
Construction
Healthcare
Budgeting
Technology
Manufacturing
Introduction
Introduce today's challenge:
Students will become "math detectives" who must solve algebra problems to unlock clues and advance through a game.
Teacher explains:
MathCaching Students solve problems to reveal parts of a web address and advance through ten challenges.
Algebra Antics Students compete using a Jeopardy-style review game covering multiple Algebra 1 topics.
Vocabulary Preview Term Definition Variable A symbol representing a number Equation A mathematical statement showing equality Function A relationship between inputs and outputs Exponent Indicates repeated multiplication Inequality A mathematical comparison
Presentation
Teacher Modeling The teacher demonstrates one sample problem:
2x + 5 = 17
Discuss:
What operation should be reversed first?
How do we isolate the variable?
Think Aloud Strategy Teacher models:
Identify the goal.
Choose a strategy.
Solve step-by-step.
Check the solution.
Game Demonstration The teacher shows:
How MathCaching works
How answers unlock clues
How Algebra Antics categories function
Practice
Engagement
Option 1: MathCaching Challenge Students work individually or with partners.
Goal:
Complete all ten challenges.
Earn the completion certificate.
Option 2: Algebra Antics Team Competition Divide the class into teams.
Teams select categories such as:
Solving Equations
Graphing
Statistics
Functions
Exponents
Quadratics
Inequalities
Systems
Collaborative Problem Solving For each problem:
Students must:
Solve the problem.
Explain their reasoning.
Verify the solution.
Co-Use Strategy Partners discuss:
Which strategy works best?
How do we know the answer is correct?
Can we solve it another way?
Teacher Support Teacher circulates and asks:
What is your first step?
Why did you choose that operation?
How can you check your answer?
Evaluation
Algebra Exit Challenge Students solve:
4x − 7 = 21
and
3(x + 2) = 18
Students show:
Steps
Solution
Verification
Reflection Questions Students answer:
Which algebra skill did you practice most today?
What strategy helped you solve problems?
What topic do you need to review further?
Application
Real-World Problem A delivery company charges a $5 service fee plus $3 per package.
The total bill is $26.
How many packages were delivered?
Students write:
Equation
Solution
Explanation
View Documents
MathBits.png - Screenshot of Algebra 1 resources including PreAlgeCaching and AlgeCaching Games
View Subjects
Math
Algebra
View Standards
Algebra: Reasoning with Equations and Inequalities
A.REI.1-2 - Understand solving equations as a process of reasoning and explain the reasoning.
Functions: Linear, Quadratic, and Exponential Models
F.LE.1-1c - Construct and compare linear, quadratic, and exponential models and solve problems.
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