Lesson Plan : Writing Algebraic Expressions

Teacher Name:
 Mrs. Debra Crump
Grade:
 Grade 9-10
Subject:
 Math

Topic:
 Variables and Expressions
Content:
 Vocabulary variables algebraic expression factors product power base exponent evaluate
Goals:
 Write algebraic expressions
Objectives:
 *Write mathematical expressions for verbal expressions. *Write verbal expressions for mathematical expressions.
Materials:
 Study Guide and Intervention p.1-4 Reading to Learn Mathematics p. 5
Introduction:
 1. FOCUS - 5-Minute Transparency 1-1: Use as a quiz or review of the previous course materials. MATHEMATICAL BACKGROUND - notes are available for this lesson on p. 4C. Before getting started, write the expression x + y on the smartboard. Ask students to read the expression out loud. Most will respond, "x plus y." Challenge students to come up with other ways to say the expression. Examples include, the sum of x and y, x added to y, and so on. Lead students to conclude that many algebraic expressions can be represented by more than one verbal or written expression.
Development:
 Explain to students that algebraic expressions often involve grouping symbols such as parentheses. Therefore, it is important to be able to recognize the "clue" words in a written expression that indicate grouping symbols. Also explain that the given clue words do not necessarily mean that parentheses are required when translating from English to Algebra. For example, sum is listed as a clue word for parentheses. However, the expression the sum of x plus y is translated as x + y without parentheses.
Practice:
 Have students to add the definitions/examples of the vocabulary terms to their Vocabulary Builder worksheets for Chapter 1. Include any other items that they find helpful in mastering the skills in this lesson.
Accommodations:
 Differentiated Instruction: Verbal/Linguistic - The transition from verbal expressions and vice versa comes easier to some students. When you identify students who may be having trouble writing mathematical or verbal expressions, pair them with another student as a mentor for practicing these skills.
Checking For Understanding:
 1. Explain the difference between an algebraic expression and a verbal expression. 2. Write an expression that represents the perimeter of the rectangle. 3. OPEN ENDED Give an example of a variable to the fifth power.
Closure:
 Review the concept.
Evaluation:
 OPEN-ENDED ASSESSMENT Challenge students to write an algebraic expression that they think will be very hard to change into a verbal expression. Then have students exchange expressions and translate into verbal expressions.
Teacher Reflections:
 

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