8th Grade Gifted: Algebra 1
1st Nine Weeks: August 7 - October 15, 2009
Unit 1: Quantitative & Functional Relationships
This unit is an introduction to the function concept. A function is a
special kind of relation in which the value of one variable depends on the
value of another variable.
Enduring Understandings:
1. There are many times in real life situiations when one quantity depends
on another.
2. Data with dependent relationships collected from real life situations can
be modeled, interpreted, and analyzed to identify patterns.
3. Patterns identified from collected data can be used to solve problems
and make decisions.
4. Unknown quantities have many representations.
5. Number values can be expressed in various ways.
Essential Questions:
1. How does classifying numbers help us grasp the relationships between
numbers?
2. Can the use of one numerical form be more efficient than another?
3. What are some ways that I can represent the relationship between
quantities? Why would I want to be able to do that?
4. When quantities share a relationship, how can I use that relationship to
determine reasonable values for the quantities.
5. How do I know when one quantity depends on another?
6. How can I use patterns to establish relationships that will help make
decisions and predictions in real life sitiuations?
