TechMAP - Formulas for Success - Student Edition

This module is a review of basic algebra in the context of formulas from a variety of areas, including landscaping, cosmetology, and plumbing. Among the algebra concepts are evaluating expressions, commutative, associative, and distributive properties, and solving linear equations. A supplemental section features 29 related problems from various state high school mathematics exams. Connections to spreadsheets are included.

Introduction

Do you think you will ever use algebra?

Many people don't think they will, but they end up being wrong.

Lots of people use algebra. Some of them use it without realizing it.

Sometimes people use algebra when they use computer spreadsheets. To use a spreadsheet, you must know something about how variables and formulas work.

That's what algebra is about: variables and formulas.



TechMAP

Covering topics from Algebra I to Precalculus, TechMAP modules show high school students real, immediate uses for mathematics.

All students MUST PASS the same standardized tests in order to graduate and succeed. All 22 TechMAP modules show tangible, real-world applications of the material on these exams, driving home required math skills.

The mathematics required by state tests is taught in algebra and geometry courses, but for many students this is not enough. TechMAP modules demonstrate these skills in vocational fields; they help reinforce existing mathematics courses through actual career activities. These modules are self-contained with exercises, teacher notes, handouts, etc., and can be used individually or together. Each module takes one to three weeks of classroom time.

• A builder finds the slope of a roof the same way an
  algebra student finds the slope of a line.
• A farmer selling her wheat must decide between several
  grain elevators in different locations. She uses conic
  sections and parameters on elementary models to make
  her decision.
• An exploration into the packaging industry reveals area
  formulas.
• GPS devices are everywhere today, and our module
  explains how they actually work; students become well-versed
  in spherical geometry, time differences, and codes.
• Carpenters work with shapes and relationships every
  day, and in our modules we explore circle relationships,
  differential equations, linear regression, and more.