Mathematical+Reflections,+p+60+0910

TJ 09/25/09 MATH 7E

Big Idea: Observation and description of changes in the world around us are the first steps in finding and learning about patterns. Essential Question: How can I use graphs, tables and symbols to solve problems?

Notes from class:
 * The distance is the speed times the time

Mathematical Reflections 4- pg 60


 * 1. The larson family is traveling from Michigan to Florida at an average of 60 miles per hour. Write an equation for a rule you can use to calculate the distance they have traveled after any given number of hours.**

An equation for a rule you can use to calculate the distance at any given time/hour is- d=60t.
 * 2. What are the advantages of having an equation to represent the Larson family's situation? What are the advantages to having a table? A graph?**

The advantages of having an equation for the Larson family's situation is that it is easy and is a quicker way to calculate the distance at any time. For a table the advantages are that you can have exact numbers and compare intervals and it is easier to read. For the graph, the advantages are that you can see the layout of their trip and you can describe the patterns and changes.


 * Think about you answers to these questions, discuss your ideas with other students and your teacher, and then write a summary of your findings in your journal.**

During this investigation, we focused on rules and equations. It was something quite different and I thought I learned it rather fast. We also observed patterns and relationships between time and distance. I thought that equations are pretty interesting and I think that is very cool how with just a few symbols and an = sign, you can get the same information that you would get in a table and a graph.