Objectives
The purpose of my unit is to give Algebra students the necessary background to successfully decipher a multi-step problem, formulate an equation, and solve the equation. In order to achieve this goal students will be taught to read, write, and interpret expressions. They will use the rules of arithmetic to simplify expressions and identify equivalent expressions. My intention is that their knowledge of the rules of arithmetic will be deep and conceptual allowing them to accurately apply the rules with confidence. Students will broaden their understanding of the equals sign as they learn to formulate and solve equations. They will be able to interpret information in word problems, formulate equations, and find solutions based on their understanding of the question.
California State Standards set forth the idea that students in Algebra should be able to "…solve multi-step problems, including word problems, involving linear equations in one variable and provide justification for each step." 1 I believe students will achieve success on this standard if given a firm foundation. My unit will take approximately 6 weeks to teach and assess. As in the past, I expect over 50% of the students will enter Algebra below grade level. The challenge will be to build up necessary skills as well as teach the new content.
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