System of Equations – there is so much to cover that it can feel overwhelming! Let’s keep this substantial math concept light and bright with some fun and engaging activities for your 8th grade and Algebra 1 students.
I will be honest, I did not expect all of this goodness to exist out there for Systems of Equations! While I will definitely be linking to our fantastic resources, I am also linking some amazing task-like resources that will make sense of all of the typical system of equation word problems.
For Graphing
- Systems of Two Linear Equations (Demos) This is a great way to introduce the concept that every point on a graph is a solution and the intersection is a solution to both equations. There is a whole class interaction aspect of this Desmos Activity that is pretty awesome! I would recommend this on Day 1 of graphing.
- System of Equations Scavenger Hunt – This is a literal scavenger hunt complete with map. Students will practice graphing systems and solving for y. “This activity has a twist–figuring out where the friends are going to meet! So fun! This is one of my favorite resources!” -E.G. Perfect as a formative assessment on day 2 of graphing.
- Algebra 1 Systems Performance Task – This Bowling Alley Performance task was designed specifically for Algebra 1 since it also includes a system of inequalities problem. The task asks students to compare the costs of food, shirts, and bowling ball weights at two competing bowling alleys. It can be an alternative to assessment or a review before your unit test. It is available in our Algebra 1 Systems Activity Bundle.
All System of Equations Methods
- The Custom Ink Project – This free activity (complete with handout and PowerPoint file) mixes a little art and a lot of math. Students design and price t-shirts, and then analyze their profits.
- Dan Meyer Coin Problem – Gosh, I love this problem. Traditional coin problems can be dry and not engaging. This short video clip (30 second clip of a person putting coins into a coin counting machine) combined with a few question prompts will have all of your students trying to solve.
- Desmos Card Sort This card sort activity would make a great station or warm up. It has a little bit of everything – sorting systems into the best method to solve and a few practice problems for each method of solving.
- Dueling Discounts – Dan Meyer has another great way for students to approach systems. When provided with two coupons – 20% off and $20 off – what is the better deal on various items? At what dollar amount does it shift?
Other Helpful Things
- These puzzles developed by Heather Sparks aren’t your typical math problems. They would make a great extension or bell ringer during your systems unit.
- System of Equations Unit Review Error Analysis – Error Analysis develops both procedural and conceptual understanding. It allows students to think behind the HOW and into the WHY. Encourage mathematical discourse by assigning it as partner work at the end of your unit.
- CCSS System of Equations Unit | CCSS Algebra 1 Systems Unit | TEKS Algebra 1 Systems Unit | – Not ready to jump into activities yet? Do you need a liiiiiiittle push in the right direction with instruction? Never fear. Our units are packed with planning resources, student handouts, independent practice, a unit review, and a unit assessment.
What system of equation activities do you implement in your classroom?
