Illustrative Mathematics
The Stamp Collection
By using language like "half of the stamps," children are exposed to patterns in arithmetic that requires solving a two-step word problem. This type of language opens a new door for transitioning learners toward understanding fractions...
EngageNY
Properties of Exponents and Radicals
(vegetable)^(1/2) = root vegetable? The fourth installment of a 35-part module has scholars extend properties of exponents to rational exponents to solve problems. Individuals use these properties to rewrite radical expressions in terms...
EngageNY
Representations of a Line
Explore how to graph lines from different pieces of information. Scholars learn to graph linear functions when given an equation, given two points that satisfy the function, and when given the initial value and rate of change. They solve...
EngageNY
Unknown Angle Proofs—Proofs of Known Facts
Lead the class in a Greek history lesson with a geometric twist. Pupils relate a short video about geometric properties to modern-day methods of solving for unknown angles. They discuss parallel line theorems and complete practice...
EngageNY
Applying the Laws of Sines and Cosines
Breaking the law in math doesn't get you jail time, but it does get you a wrong answer! After developing the Law of Sines and Cosines in lesson 33 of 36, the resource asks learners to apply the laws to different situations. Pupils must...
EngageNY
Unknown Angles
How do you solve an equation like trigonometry? Learners apply their understanding of trigonometric ratios to find unknown angles in right triangles. They learn the meaning of arcsine, arccosine, and arctangent. Problems include basic...
EngageNY
Discrete Random Variables
You don't need to be discreet about using the resource on discrete variables. In the fifth installment of a 21-part module, scholars explore random variables and learn to distinguish between discrete and continuous random variables. They...
Illustrative Mathematics
Painting a Room
This real-life math problem concentrates on developing the understanding of dividing a unit fraction by a whole number. It allows students to draw out a solution to aid their thinking. The well-written answer sheet describes common...
Curated OER
Radical Equations
This task gives geometry learners practice in solving radical equations in one variable and zeros in extraneous solutions.
Curated OER
Study Buddies: Relating Multiplication And Division
These acitivities are designed for two! With a partner, problem solve and calculate the answers to fifteen word problems or mathematical equations. Scaffolding and coaching are included, and as an extension learners are prompted to...
Curated OER
Dr. Al Gebra
Young math whizzes role play a doctor operating on a patient without diagnosing the patient's condition. They relate this medical malpractice to performing a mathematical operation before evaluating conditions or deciding what the...
Illustrative Mathematics
Dividing by One-Half
Understanding when to divide by two or one-half can be confusing. Here is an activity that gives four different scenarios. It is up to your number crunchers to decide if they divide by two or one-half. The easiest way to approach the...
Illustrative Mathematics
Listing Fractions in Increasing Size
Increase the depth of your class's fractional number sense with this number-ordering activity. Given four fractions, each with different numerators and denominators, young learners are asked to place them in order from smallest to...
Illustrative Mathematics
Who is the Tallest?
A simple question, with a not-so-simple answer. Working with whole and mixed number measurements in inches, feet, and yards presents a problem with many possible solutions. A great activity that challenges the minds of young...
Curated OER
Right on Time
The hour is nigh for your class to practice equivalency problems in the form of time-zone conversions. They write equations to describe elapsed time and apply problem solving strategies, including writing a plan, to solve the problems.
Curated OER
What Is It?
You have to love lessons that foster problem solving strategies. This one has upper graders devise and employ their own strategy to solve given problems after they have used classics like guess/check, substitution, make a table, and look...
Illustrative Mathematics
Voting for Two, Variation 4
After elections, the total amount of votes is not specified but the ratio of votes is. Your learners' job is to determine the fraction of votes John received above half of all votes. The problem can be solved abstractly or by other...
Curated OER
Multiple Variables in an Equation
Young mathematicians apply problem-solving skills to equations that have more than one variable. They will work through the process to problem solve and discover the solution.
Curated OER
Stop Signs, Musical Notes, Letters & Logos: Designing Symbols
Students develop an awareness of environmental print, such as signs, logos, brand names, and other print and non-print items that the children see and read in their neighborhood each day. They then engage in active problem solving as...
Illustrative Mathematics
Voting for Two, Variation 3
After calculating election votes, your learners must determine how many votes the winner, John, got above 50%. This multi-step problem encourages them to think in a deeper way about what the question is asking them to find. Use with...
Curated OER
Mathematical Reasoning
Ninth graders solve mathematical mysteries associated with a real life situation. For this ninth grade mathematics lesson, 9th graders choose a scenario from Real Life Math Mysteries by Mary Ford Washington and solve one or more of the...
Illustrative Mathematics
Voting for Two, Variation 1
The votes are in and your mathematicians are going to calculate how many votes each candidate received. Three different solution choices are given, depending on which method is taught. Have your learners set up a table, compute parts, or...
Curated OER
Using Tiles to Solve Word Problems
Young scholars solve problems using equations. In this algebra instructional activity, students identify the correct symbols and steps when solving word problems. They graph their lines and analyze the slope using tiles.
Curated OER
Strategic Games Y1: Nim
First graders play Nim online to practice problem solving skills and strategies.