Activities to Teach Students to Solve a System of Equations by Graphing

A system of equations is a set of equations with multiple variables that need to be solved to find the values of those variables. One of the most popular ways to solve these systems is to graph the equations and find the point of intersection. This method is particularly useful for students who are just starting to learn about systems of equations. Here are some ideas for activities that can teach students to solve a system of equations by graphing.
Real-World Scenarios
It is essential to make complex topics such as systems of equations interesting and relatable. You can use real-world scenarios in your lessons to build engagement with the students. For instance, you can give scenarios such as finding the cost of apples and strawberries if their total cost is $10 and the ratio of apples to strawberries is 3:2.
Create Mystery Pictures
Another fun way to engage children in graphing systems of equations is by creating mystery pictures. For example, students can graph two straight lines and shade in the area where the two lines intersect. In doing so, they will reveal an image that can pique their interest- such as a sailboat. This helps them to relate better to the problem at hand, making it more enjoyable and less stressful.
The Group Challenge
Working in groups can sometimes make it easier for students to grasp a concept. One way to encourage group collaboration is to organize an in-class challenge. Divide the students into groups and give each group a set of equations. The group that solves the system of equations faster will move to the next round. This will help them to train their brains to solve equations faster and more efficiently.
Kahoot! Quizzes
Kahoot! is an interactive game-based platform that teachers can use to allow students to learn while having fun. To teach students to solve a system of equations by graphing, you can create Kahoot! quizzes. These quizzes can ask questions about solving the coordinates and which quadrant they are in and can be used as a quick assessment after a particular lesson.
Online Interactive Games
In addition to Kahoot!, there are many other online platforms with interactive games that teach graphing systems of equations. Platforms such as Math Play can offer various games such as Farmer Pete’s Equation Game that can help students learn without realizing that they are doing so.
In conclusion, solving systems of equations by graphing may be more interactive and practical for students. By using various engaging techniques such as real-world scenarios and group challenges, the learning experience can be both enjoyable and effective.