Unit: Algebra
Topic: Solving Equations
Objectives: Evergreen Curriculum
Website: Virtual Manipuliatives - Algebra Balance Scale
This website contains vairety of virtual manipulatives for mathematics ranging from K-12 and around topics such as algebra, geometry, measurement, numbers and operations, Data analysis and problem solving. In Math 9 their is a unit on algebra. Many times this is the first time students have begun to solve equations. The idea of keeping equations balanced when solving can be complicated to some students. The metaphor of keeping the equation balanced on a scale helps students visullay see the idea.
This website has a java applet that allows students to create a balanced equation on a scale then solve the equation, but if the equation is not solved correctly the scale becomes unbalanced. I would use this website not only to demonstrate solving equations but allow students to use the virtual manipulative as well. After teaching students how to create ones and zeros when solving for X, I would use this applet as an assignment that day.
The assignment would be to answer 15 questions that the applet gives you and to answer 2 questions that you create. I believe maniplulatives enhance student learners because they help reach visual, tactile and concrete learners. It gives students a more concrete idea of how to solve equations. Another resource they can us in order to successfully understand and apply the concept.
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