Idea Galaxy

Adventures in Junior High and Mathematics

Math Teaching Tips

15 Systems of Equations Activities For Your Classroom

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If systems of equations were a person, it would probably be my arch nemesis. I’ve struggled to find ways to get students to understand what systems of equations represents and then for them to solve using different methods. My first year teaching it I remember just trying to teach my math lab kids one way to do it so that they could “survive” the end of unit test. Man, do I wish I could have those students back and have a second chance to teach them systems of equations.

Now, not only do I have more tricks up my sleeve for teaching students to solve systems of equations, I also have found so many fun systems of equations activities that help students really understand how to solve with different strategies. So check out these 15 systems of equations activities that will help students understand and practice finding the solution to two linear equations. [Read more…] about 15 Systems of Equations Activities For Your Classroom

11 Graphing Activities for Solving Systems of Linear Equations

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So much of what we teach in 8th grade math seems to be preparing our students to solve systems of linear equations. Understanding what a linear equation represents in its many forms helps students to see what they are doing with a system of equations. Graphing a system of equations shows students the most visual representation. It also lends itself to using real life situations, so that students can put it into context.

To help you save time planning your systems of equations unit, I’m sharing with you 11 activities that help students understand how to solve systems of equations with graphing. [Read more…] about 11 Graphing Activities for Solving Systems of Linear Equations

Math Review Game Strategy that Works: Pick a Card

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When I was a kid I loved watching the game show The Price is Right. I’ve always been intrigued with money and I love the probability aspect to the games on that show. So, now when my kids look a little lethargic or bored I like to add a Price is Right style game to the mix. One game I use is called Pick a Card. It’s an easy way to spice up math practice with virtually no prep.  [Read more…] about Math Review Game Strategy that Works: Pick a Card

11 Super Fun Activities for Simplifying Fractions

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Students have to simplify fractions from 3rd grade on. They just keep showing up again and again. Some topics show up once or twice and then go away, but that’s not the case with simplifying fractions. I remember one particular moment with simplifying fractions that has really stuck with me. I was working with my 8th grade math lab class, and as they solved equations they had to simplify the answer. They had completed this very complicated process and then when they got to the end of it, they didn’t remember how to simplify a fraction. I got a little frustrated and said to one student, “Why do you keep learning this skill again and again? Why don’t you figure out how to remember it?” Maybe not the best approach, but I was legitimately puzzled. So, today’s post tackles simplifying fractions with eleven fun activities that will get students lots of practice, and hopefully help it stick forever! [Read more…] about 11 Super Fun Activities for Simplifying Fractions

9 Magical Activities for Real World Equations Problems

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There’s no doubt that I was meant to be a middle school teacher. I love zombies, pirates, unicorns, tacos, and avocados. Once I realized that my love for the random was shared by my students, I found a way to relate to them. Some of my students leave the room and tell me to have a nice avocado. It doesn’t really mean anything, but these inside jokes bring my class together  When I practicing with real world problems, or word problems, I make sure to add some of that randomness flair to the math situations. We have a fun time solving these dreaded word problems, and it helps students stay engaged. Today I’ll share with you nine go-to strategies and activities that help students practice solving real world problems with equations. [Read more…] about 9 Magical Activities for Real World Equations Problems