Algebra and Graphing

Algebra is a fancy word for find missing parts in a math problem. The way that you find those missing pieces is an equation. Finding these parts balances out the problem and completes it."Jose gave 2 markers to Yoki. He has 3 left over. How many did he start out with?"The missing piece is how many he first had. For the missing piece, we use a letter (like x) to show where it is missing.x-2=3             (We subtract because he GAVE AWAY and we want to find what he started with.x=3+2       (2 is added so X is alone and the sides are balanced)x=5  See? It's not so bad!

In this baseball game, be sure to scroll down and select "Yes" for the Algebra option. Start out with addition and work your way up to Division and "All of the above"! Have fun!

Imagine that you have a magical machine. You put an object in it, magic is given to that object, and something completely different comes out! Now functions aren't magic, but it is similar to this! A function is a rule that you have a number follow. When the rule is applied, a new number is created! Take a look at these numbers...X is the original number and Y is the new number. Guess the rule!X                   Y0                   21                   32                   43                   5If you guessed that the rule is to "add 2" you are correct! Functions are about finding the relationship between the numbers. Good job!

You know how to do algebra and use functions. Now what?Next, you use those skills to create a graph! You are given an equation that says," y=3x+1" (or y=mx+b)Let's take this apart together!YRemember our functions? Y is the "output". Our job is to discover where to put the points on the graph.3xThe number attached to the x is something called a "slope". A slope, like a skiing hill, takes you up or down. The format is RISE/RUN. Since 3/1 is 3, we know that the RISE is 3 (How far you go up or down) and the RUN (the LENGTH you go). XThis is where you put your input. For an example, x=2 (like your in a function!)if x=2, 3x= 61 Where the number one is where your point (called b) on the graph begins. Algebra, functions, and graphs can all go together!

Here is a beginner's graph that uses y=mx+b Take a look at where x and y end up and if they follow the "rule"!

You know that the functions tell you where to go on the graph. Recall that the X-axis (in-put) is the horizontal line and that the Y-axis (out-puts) is the vertical line.Use these games to review WHERE to plot those points from a function.

Ready for something a little more difficult?A Y intercept is a horizontal line the passes through where "Y" is. A X intercept is a vertical line that crosses through X.In this game, you get the rescue the Zogs! Use these tips to save them!HINT: Remember, you can adjust the slope to!

This videos puts these concepts all together for you. It may be a little more challenging, but take a look!