When I think of foundational skills taught in Algebra 1, solving equations, graphing linear equations in two variables, and factoring always come to mind. There are so many activities for graphing linear equations that will make your linear functions unit engaging and relevant!
Looking for more Algebra 1 activities? Check out these blog posts ↓
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- 5 Activities to Help Your Students Master Compound Inequalities
- 5 Unique Ways to Use Task Cards in Math Class
Understanding Functions
If we bring functions back to basics, at the root of every problem is an input and an output. The function is just a pattern that shows how the output is changed based on the input value. A great way to showcase this for students just starting to understand cause and effect is by using a table.
Students can find the pattern from the input to the output to write the rule for the function. There is a lot that can be explored using just tables and graphs.
This lesson is a great way to get your students thinking about functions and understanding what they represent.
Having a solid understanding of functions is critical before moving onto graphing using slope-intercept form. Once students are introduced to a formula, it is common for them to forget where the pattern actually came from.
In order for your students to truly understand the math that they are doing, you want them to be able to know why and how it works.
Looking for an introductory lesson plan and activities for graphing linear equations and understanding functions?
Check out these guided notes ➡︎
Mastering Slope
Students need to have a solid understanding of slope, first, before they can accurately graph lines in slope-intercept form.
There are many discovery-based and real-world activities that can be used to teach and reinforce slope. This is a great opportunity to assign hands-on activities.
My students loved this slopes in real life project because they were able to get up out of their seats and search for the answers. Even my least engaged students were taking the opportunity to find different slopes around the room and write about them!
Activities for Graphing Linear Equations in Slope-Intercept Form
Slope-intercept form is one of the first ways that students are taught how to graph an equation. By this point, your students have a solid understanding of functions and slopes and are ready to move on to graphing more efficiently.
Although transformations are not typically taught or defined in Algebra 1, there is still value in making observations. This transformation activity asks students to think critically about how the y-intercept and slope affect the positioning and appearance of a linear function.
I will always rave about the Desmos Marbleslides activity. It was a fan favorite of my students and could keep them engaged for at least 30 minutes. This is true gamification and was always my go-to for sub plans or the day before a long weekend.
Applying Slope-Intercept Form
In addition to the applications of functions activities from above, the linear equations unit is a great place to start sprinkling in some real-world applications and projects.
You and your students are set in your routine at this point, maybe so much so that you feel like you’re in a bit of a rut.
Here are a few of my favorite activities for graphing linear equations when I’m looking to spice up my lesson plans ↓
I loved using this real life project as an extension for early finishers and students who needed to be challenged.
If you have 5-10 minutes at the beginning or end of class these writing prompts are perfect for getting your students thinking outside of the box.
This parallel and perpendicular lines city project was always a hit with my Algebra 1 students. It was always really cool to see the different designs and cities that they came up with. (And I love that you can hang them up on the walls!)
There are so many ways to teach slope-intercept form in a fun and engaging way. By using hands-on activities, real-world applications, and games, students can develop a deep understanding of this fundamental Algebra 1 concept. I hope you found these ideas helpful!