Download Lesson: Introduction to Algebra tiles Grade: 8th Big Idea: To

Lesson: Introduction to Algebra tiles
Grade: 8th
Big Idea: To investigate the properties of Algeblocks. Establish classroom procedures
for the use of manipulatives.
Objectives: Students will use manipulatives to
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Model the addition of two positive numbers
Model the addition of two negative numbers
Solve word problems using addition of two integers
Multiply and divide integers in context
PDE Standards: 2.2.B, 2.8C, 2.4B, 2.5B
Materials:
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Laptop computer
Algeblocks
Pen or pencil
Copybook or loose leaf
Launch: (10 min)
To begin the class
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Objectives and agenda on written on board
Have the students groups set up
Have words to know and their definitions on board
o Manipulative
o Integers
o Algeblocks
I will ask the students if they use any kind of manipulatives in their everyday
experiences. (Pause 20 seconds)
Bring up money and how each coin represents a number i.e.
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Penny = 1
Nickel = 5
Dime = 10
Quarter = 25
Half dollar = 50
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1 dollar bill = 100
Ask them how many and what coins they would use to get different amounts.
96, 125, 13, 10, 37
Ask them if they could get the same amounts with different coins. (Discuss)
Lesson: (30 min)
Have the students break into the prearranged groups of 2 and hand out the computers.
Tell the students to go to the website http://nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/topic_t_2.html. Explain to
the students what they will be doing, addition, subtraction, multiplication and division
using the algebra balance scales.
Four Steps for Solving Simple Linear Equations
In order to solve an equation, follow these steps:
1. Simplify both sides of the equation by using the distributive property and
combining like terms, if possible.
2. Move all terms with variables to one side of the equation using the addition
property of equations, and then simplify.
3. Move the constants to the other side of the equation using the addition property
of equations and simplify.
4. Divide by the coefficient using the multiplication property of equations.
I am going to demonstrate a simple linear equation on the board first. Let them know
that the idea is to isolate the variable “x” by itself on one side of the equation.
6x + 9 = 3x – 6
add -3x to both sides
3x + 9 = -6
add -9 to both sides
3x = -15
divide both sides by 3
x = -5
The students will be using virtual manipulatives from the website
http://nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/topic_t_2.html. Have the students click on the icon for
algebra balance scales.
Have the students click on the create problem icon. Have them put in 6x + 3 = 3x + 6
Walk them through the first problem. (ans. x=1)
Tell them then to hit the new problem icon and solve the problem.
Have each group do 5 problems.
Next have the students exit that web page and click on the algebra balance scales negatives icon. Then the icon create problem and have the students type in 4x-3=x+6.
Walk them through the first one. (ans. x=3).
Have the students solve 5 more problems. While the groups are working, walk around
the class and observe and ask questions.
When isolating the x-blocks to one side does the order in which you move the integers
and variables matter?
Summation: Let the students know that algebra tiles or algeblocks are tools that assist a
student to visualize what is going on in an equation. And that for some it is the first step
to understanding linear equations. It is easier for some people to physically see the
problem before them,
Assessment: Do worksheet for homework. I want them to try the problems at home and
if they need to use the website to help them they may.
Homework
a) x – 4 = 1
b) 3x – 8 = 13
c) x + 1 = 9
d) 2x + 1 = 11
e) x – 6 = 4x + 6
f) x + 1 = 3x + 1
g) 2x – 3 = -9
h) x + 1 = 5x - 7