Got a Plan - with the Piecewise Linear Grapher

Grade Levels

10th Grade, 11th Grade, 12th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th Grade

Course, Subject

Algebra I, Algebra II

Related Academic Standards

A1.2.2.1.4 A1.2.2.1.4

Determine the slope and/or y-intercept represented by a linear equation or graph.

Expand

Big Ideas

Bivariate data can be modeled with mathematical functions that approximate the data well and help us make predictions based on the data.

Families of functions exhibit properties and behaviors that can be recognized across representations. Functions can be transformed, combined, and composed to create new functions in mathematical and real world situations.

Mathematical functions are relationships that assign each member of one set (domain) to a unique member of another set (range), and the relationship is recognizable across representations.

Relations and functions are mathematical relationships that can be represented and analyzed using words, tables, graphs, and equations.

There are some mathematical relationships that are always true and these relationships are used as the rules of arithmetic and algebra and are useful for writing equivalent forms of expressions and solving equations and inequalities.
Concepts

Analysis of one and two variable (univariate and bivariate) data

Functions and multiple representations

Linear relationships: Equation and inequalities in one and two variables

Linear system of equations and inequalities
Competencies

Represent functions (linear and non-linear) in multiple ways, including tables, algebraic rules, graphs, and contextual situations and make connections among these representations. Choose the appropriate functional representation to model a real world situation and solve problems relating to that situation.

Write, solve, and interpret systems of two linear equations and inequalities using graphing and algebraic techniques.

Rationale

You are a customer service representative for Cell Zone, a company that produces reports on cellular phone companies and helps clients choose plans that fit their needs and lifestyles.

Description

In this activity, students will consider different cell phone plans and, using graphs, will analyze the nature of changes in quantities in linear relationships.

Students will use the Piecewise Linear Grapher (see below) to help in the analyzation of the cell phone plans.

Students will need access to a computer to use the Linear Grapher. Students will become comfortable using this tool rather quickly.

Resource

See the link below for the interactive resource. After creating a free account, you will have access to all ITSI-SU Math and Science interactive resource and lessons.

http://itsisu.portal.concord.org/activities/27.jnlp?teacher_mode=true

Got a Plan - with the Piecewise Linear Grapher