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Algebra 1

Unit 1 Overview

Algebra 1Unit 1 Overview

Unit 1 Overview

Unit 1 Overview

Why Should I Care?

Do you know what a budget is? Have you ever used one? Watch the video to learn a bit about how City Manager Arthur Noriega uses linear equations to manage the budget for the city of Miami.

Algebraic Thinking and Budgets

In this unit, you will learn about using variables, expressions, and equations to model relationships. You will learn that you can represent a constraint, or limit on what is possible in a situation, using expressions, equations, and inequalities. This will be helpful whether you want to know how soon you’ll be able to save for a new bicycle, or if you can afford to go to a concert with your friends in two weeks.

You will also learn to transform one equation into an equivalent equation. Sometimes you want to write an equation in a different form so you can solve for a certain variable or so you can write the equation in a form that makes it easier to identify information about the relationship. You will learn how the form and parts of linear equations are related to the features of its graph. A graph can be helpful to model a relationship and to make sense of the constraints.

Building Character: Social Intelligence

As a city manager, Arthur Noriega must work with others to develop budgets. Similarly, in this course, you will need to work with your classmates to solve problems. Working well with others is a skill that will be useful to you in this course, as well as outside of the classroom. Most jobs require the ability to work well, or collaborate, with other people.

Throughout this unit, you will work on developing your social intelligence. Social intelligence is the ability to connect with other people. Having this ability allows you to interact in a more positive manner with others. Being empathetic, or sensitive to what others are feeling, shows that you care about others. In fact, empathetic people are less likely to experience anxiety, depression, and addictions later in life. They are also more likely to be hired, promoted, earn more money, and have happier marriages and better-adjusted children.

Think about your current sense of social intelligence. How many of the following statements are true for you?

  • I have a lot of relationships that are mutually beneficial, enjoyable, and supportive.
  • Most of the time, I can tell how other people feel and have a good idea about how to respond appropriately.
  • My relationships make me feel good about myself.
  • The people in my life help me be my best.

Don’t worry if none of these statements are true for you. Developing this trait takes time. Your first step starts today!

Am I Ready to Learn This?

Getting Ready for Unit 1

To be ready for this unit, you need to be able to:

  • Solve linear equations using a general strategy.
  • Classify equations.
  • Identify points on a graph.

Next, you will answer some questions that will help you see how ready you are for this unit. If you need help, some mini-lessons will help you brush up on anything you need to work on.

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