Algebraic+Thinking+Resources

= Online Resources = **Algebra Balance Scales and Algebra Balance Scales—Negative (NLVM)** Linear equations are presented on a two-pan balance with variables on each side. The user can solve equations in the same way as described in the text. The Negative version uses balloons for negative values and negative variables. **Apple Learning Exchange** This site, published by Apple Learning Exchange, contains elementary lesson plans for many content areas. Within the math section, there are several lesson plans including algebraic topics for grades 2 and up. The lesson plans sometimes include links to interactive sites for practice. **Graph Sketcher (Shodor)** Works very much like a graphing calculator for graphing functions of any type. A good demonstration tool for making graphs of equations. **Learning about Rate of Change (NCTM e-Examples)** An interactive lesson in which the cost per minute to make a phone call (the slope) can be adjusted and then the graph of the cost can be displayed. A slider helps connect points on the two graphs. **Pan Balance—Shapes (NCTM)** With each problem, four shapes are assigned unknown values. By stacking shapes on the two balance pans, the user attempts to balance the scale and then create additional balances. A numbers version and an expressions version are extensions of this applet. **Patterns, Relations and Functions (eNLVM)** This module encourages students to generate rules and functions for geometric sequences, describing relationships between the pattern number and characteristics of the pattern. **Slope Slider (Shodor)** A good interactive tool for illustrating the meaning of slope and the //y//-intercept for a linear equation of the form //y// = //mx// + //b//. The user can use a slider to change the value of //m// or //b// and see the graph change dynamically.

**Function Machine (NLVM)**
 * Function Machine Applets**

**Function Machine (Math Playground)** This is a nice, Flash-based tool. **Graph Sketcher (Shodor)** Works very much like a graphing calculator for graphing functions of any type. A good demonstration tool for making graphs of equations. **Learning About Rate of Change (NCTM e-Example)** A nice interactive lesson in which the cost per minute to make a phone call (the slope) can be adjusted and then the graph of the cost can be displayed. A slider helps connect points on the two graphs. **Stop That Creature! (PBS Kids’ Cyberchase)** In this fun game, figure out the rule that runs the game to shut down the creature cloning machine. **Function Machine (Shodor)** The functions on this site have one of the following forms: y = x x __, y = x + __, y = x - __, where the underline can be any integer between -10 and 10. **Linear Function Machine (Shodor)**

**Pan Balance – Shapes (NCTM)** With each problem, four shapes are assigned unknown values. By stacking shapes on the two balance pans, the user attempts to balance the scale and then create additional balances. A numbers version and an expressions version are extensions of this applet. **PurpleMath.com** An excellent resource for reinforcing algebraic thinking, from elementary to high school. Each topic has thorough background notes, with interactive features. All topics include examples worked out on the page, along with practice opportunities for students. **Slope Slider (Shodor)** A good interactive tool for illustrating the meaning of slope and the y-intercept for a linear equation of the form y = + b. The user can use a slider to change the value of m or b and see the graph change dynamically. **Teaching Functions (Shodor)** This Project Interactivate site contains a list of activities relating to teaching functions. The activities include a very basic introduction to functions, as well as teaching linear functions, graphing and functions, and others. All activities relate the NCTM standards to the objectives being taught. **Understanding Distance, Speed, and Time Relationships Using Simulation Software (NCTM)** The speed and starting position of two runners can be set. Runners can even go in opposite directions. Graphs of each runner are created dynamically as the runners are set in motion. **Video-based courses** This page describes video-based courses available for teaching algebra and functions to middle school students. The courses can provide the teacher with graduate course credits.