More on Inverse Variations

The graphs of inverse variations show certain types of symmetry, and these can be described by lines. Inverse variations can describe either continuous or discrete sets of data, so students were reminded to be aware of this when graphing their results.

Tonight's Homework: CME 281 (3), 282 (10 - 12). If you want to get ahead, you could finish the review worksheet on graphing linear inequalities.

Inverse Variations and Their Equations

Students used handheld computers to graph a series of equations that resulted in a variety of graphs that looked very different from the graphs of linear functions. Most notably, the graphs show curved "lines" in opposite quadrants (like quadrants I and III or II and IV). We talked about the equations that represent inverse variations (xy = k) and their major features, including asymptotes.

Tonight's Homework: CME 281 (1, 4-7), 282 (8, 9 and 13)

What? Direct Variation?

Results from yesterday's test were shared with the class. We then talked about a special case of the slope-intercept form of a linear equation where b = 0. All of these equations will produce lines that pass through the origin. These are called direct variations. The equations for these lines look like this: y = mx. Another way to write this equation is y/x = m, where m is a constant value (the slope). Students caught on to this very quickly.

Tonight's Homework: CME 281 (2, 3) and 282 (10 - 12).

Parallel and Perpendicular Lines Test Taken in Class Today

Students took the test over equations for lines that are parallel or perpendicular to given equations. This test took the majority of the period, so little time was available to most for getting started on tonight's homework.

Tonight's Homework:
Complete the worksheet on graphing linear inequalities. Be sure to do both sides, and pay attention to the dashed and solid lines! And remember, getting your grade slip will earn you extra credit . . .

Reviewing for Monday's Test

Students reviewed for the upcoming test by answering a series of questions related to our studies. We looked at a couple of "clicker"-like activities to ensure students knew how to determine the slope and y-intercepts of given lines. We also reviewed the rules related to writing equations in function, standard, and slope-intercept forms. All papers that have been turned in this week were returned to students so they can be used to assist in preparing for the upcoming test.

Tonight's Homework:
There is nothing you will need to turn in to me, but do take time to prepare for the test over equations of parallel and perpendicular lines, which will be given in class on Monday.

Test Finished in Class Today

Students turned in their word problem solutions and then finished the second part of the test today. Afterwards, they received feedback on how they did on the first part of the test. Most were pleasantly surprised with their scores.

Tonight's Homework:
None.

"Swan Lake" Ballet Trip Cancels Class

Because the entire school attended a performance of "Swan Lake" at the Hult Center this morning, our math class was canceled. There is no new work assigned today. Enjoy the weekend!

Tonight's Homework: None.

Part on of the Linear Equations Test Taken in Class Today

Students took the first part of the test over linear equations in class today. Most had more than enough time to complete the test and double check their work. The second part of the test will be given in class on Monday, February 11th.

Tonight's Homework: Complete the word problem about shirts and sweatshirts you received in class today. Be sure to show your work, label your answer, and show a check step.

Group Review for the Test Tomorrow

Students worked in groups of 4 and answered a series of questions to help them review for tomorrow's test. This work was turned in at the end of the class period.

Tonight's Homework: Study for tomorrow's test over linear equations.

Applying the Nature of Slopes to Life-Like Situations

After reviewing for Thursday's test, we practiced transforming equations written in slop-intercept form into standard form. The key things to remember about standard form are the "a" term cannot be negative and cannot be a fraction.

Tonight's Homework: Start preparing for Thursday's test. Do CME 355 (1 - 9).

Slopes of Parallel and Perpendicular Lines

After reviewing the slopes of vertical and horizontal lines, we talked about the slopes of parallel lines. Lines that are parallel have identical slopes but different y intercepts. Perpendicular lines have slopes that are negative reciprocals of each other. Perpendicular lines also can have the same or different y intercept.

Tonight's Homework: Complete both sides of the yellow worksheet, and the front page of the practice test. Remember, there will be a test over this material on Thursday, February 7. Start preparing now.

Reviewing Slope-Intercept and Standard Forms of Linear Equations

Because students seem to be a little shaky on finding slope and the y-intercept, we used today to review how to do these things. Students received two worksheets to complete, and had about 30 minutes to work on them this morning.

Tonight's Homework: Complete both sides of the single-paged worksheet. Be sure to include the equations for each line, written in slope-intercept form. Complete pages two and three of the ivory-colored worksheets.