Variables & Patterns

Introducing Algebra

Unit Goals:

§         Identify quantitative variables in situations

§          Recognize situations where changes in variables are related in useful patterns

§          Describe patterns of change shown in words, tables, and graphs of data

§          Construct tables and graphs to display relations among variables

§          Observe relationships between two quantitative variables shown in a table, graph, or equation and describe how the relationship can be seen in each of the forms of representation

§          Use algebraic symbols to write rules and equations relating variables

§          Use tables, graphs, and equations to solve problems

§         Use graphing calculators to construct tables and graphs of relations between variables and to answer questions about these relations

Essential Terms

·          Change

·         Coordinate graph

·          Coordinate pair

·         Dependent variable

·          Distance/time/rate of speed

·         Equation, formula

·          Income/cost/profit

·         Independent variable

·          Pattern

·         Relationship

·          Rule

·          Scale

·         Table

·          Variable

·          X-axis

·         Y-axis

·          X-coordinate

·         Y-coordinate

Useful Terms Referenced in Unit

·          Plot

·         Point

·          Range of values