Grade 4 - Algebraic Reasoning Unit
The Algebraic Reasoning Unit involves developing an understanding of expressions and equations to answer questions such as:
- How can you use equation(s) to represent this story problem? What do the variables in your equation(s) represent?
- How does a table help to identify the relationship between real-life paired numbers—such as tricycles and wheels? Can you come up with a rule to describe this relationship? Explain.
- How might a numerical expression be used describe the relationships in your table? For example, given the rule "add 3" and the starting number 0, how can you use the expression to extend the number pattern in your table?
Math Concepts and Skills:
The student develops understanding of how expressions and equations are used.
The student:
- represents and solves multi-step problems involving the four operations with whole numbers using equations with a letter standing for the unknown quantity.
- represents problems using an input-output table and generates numerical expressions to describe a number pattern that follows a given rule.
Summative Assessment Task
Students determine how many boxes of tile Mrs. Garcia needs to put a tile border along one side of her kitchen wall.
Instructional Tasks/Formative Assessments
Students determine how many packages of twelve crayon boxes the class needs for a year.
Given a cost per pair of skateboard wheels, students determine how much money is needed to buy 846 skateboard wheels.
Students determine how many blocks Allen will need to build 2 block towers.
Students determine how many loads of bricks Carlos needs to buy to repair a brick sidewalk.
Students determine how much money the class needs to earn to go on a field trip to the aquarium.
Given a recipe, students determine how many eggs and cups of milk Mrs. Tanner needs to make large muffins for all the students in her class.
Students determine which way Jane should choose to be paid for her summer job.