Test probability concepts with an activity that asks pupils to first complete a task investigating false positive in medical testing and then to evaluate sample responses to the same task.

Build upon linear functions to learn about quadratics. The lesson introduces the concept of zeros for quadratic functions and makes the connection to the linear factors of the function. It presents quadratics in both graphical and...

Antarctica is a big place, large enough to provide ample opportunities to learn about math. A two-week unit teaches middle school mathematics concepts using project-based learning. The resource covers functions, geometry (area,...

The Black Death epidemic is responsible for more than one million deaths in the United Kingdom. An inquiry-based activity has young scholars explore the rate of disease spread. They then analyze graphs showing data from epidemics such as...

Tell the story of the math. Given a graph of a linear system, learners write a story that models the graph before crafting the corresponding functions. Graphs intersect at an estimated point, allowing for different variations in the...

Introduce a new type of function through discovery. Math learners build an understanding of rational expressions by creating tables and graphing the result. 

Trace the links between a variety of math concepts in this far-reaching unit. Ideas that seem very different on the outset (like the distance formula and rigid transformations) come together in very natural and logical ways. This...

As part of a study of percent and percent change, learners first complete an assessment task with several percent change problems. They then complete an activity using cards to create a diagram expressing percent increases and...

Functions as inputs for other functions? After reviewing function notation and how to input values to evaluate functions, class members input functions into functions, essentially determining the composition of functions.

Parallel parking might be difficult, but finding parallel lines is fairly simple. In this instructional activity, learners first complete an assessment task involving parallel and perpendicular lines in the coordinate plane. Individuals...

The power to solve exponential equations lies in the resource. Scholars first learn how to solve exponential equations. An activity matching cards with equations, intermediate steps, and solutions strengthens this skill.

Zeroes are more important than they look! A guided practice activity takes learners through the process of both scientific and decimal notation, culminating in more complex word problems and equations.

Shuffle 'em up and deal! Learners practice operations with polynomials using cards they pass around the room. The activity works with pairs or individuals, so it offers great flexibility. This is the fifth installment in a series of 42...

Translate, evaluate, educate. Discover how to translate and evaluate expressions. Young mathematicians first review words and phrases that indicate operations and learn to write algebraic expressions from verbal descriptions....

Scholars determine how two quantities vary with respect to each other. They complete a fill-in-the-blank activity by stating whether the entities vary directly, inversely, or jointly, create equations that match different variations, and...

Learners compare and contrast sine and cosine graphs in order to describe their characteristics in a collaborative activity. As they explain their reasoning, learners strengthen their writing and vocabulary skills associated with...

Sixth graders connect numerical expressions to geometric area. They first complete an assessment task requiring them to identify area models for numerical expressions. Learners then participate in an activity to match area models to...

Would you rather have a million dollars or 1 x 10^6 dollars? To find the answer to this question, class members first complete an assessment task converting numbers between decimal notation and scientific notation. They then take...

Learners first determine the slope-intercept and standard forms of inequalities given graphs, and then determine key features of the graphs.

Round and round we go. Learners first complete a task on writing equations of circles. They then take part in a collaborative activity categorizing a set of equations for circles based on the radius and center.

Double, toil ,and double linear dimensions. Learners first complete an assessment investigating how doubling linear dimensions affects the area of pizzas and the volume of popcorn containers. They then complete an activity investigating...

When is a foot not a foot? When you use the length of your own foot to measure distances, of course. To underscore the importance of standardized units of measurement, middle schoolers engage in a series of activities that ask them to...

Children learning to add numbers up to 11 develop the strategy of using the larger number as the first addend and counting on from there to find a sum. They define addition and review the meaning of the plus (+) symbol. To practice, they...

Math manipulatives are wonderful for demonstrating any number of mathematical concepts in a concrete and visual way. Learners review the addition property of equality and the zero property using a scale model kit (not shown). They...