Balancing Act: A Math Exploration
Balance scales are a useful way to model subtraction and algebraic equations. We will learn the basics and then put our creativity to the test, picking up some integer arithmetic practice along the way.
Justin Lanier, Ph.D.
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(7)
What's included
1 live meeting
50 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
This is a math exploration, so most of the student learning will happen as they discuss and tinker with a sequence of rich math puzzles and challenges. The main goals of this course are to build flexible arithmetic thinking for students and to encourage algebraic habits of mind. It's also an introduction to alternative number systems (like binary), as well as an enjoyable and creative math experience! After introductions and some warm-up arithmetic exercises, I'll introduce balance scale puzzles and the idea of weight sets. During class we will cycle through having solo work time, partner discussions, and whole-class discussions as we solve challenges of increasing difficulty. Students will create their own puzzles and weight sets and will solve each other's, as well.
Learning Goals
There are many mathematical concepts that may come up as we work on the problem, depending on the examples students come up with and their prior knowledge. Some concepts include: addition and subtraction of integers, flexible arithmetic thinking, alternate bases (like binary and ternary), making an organized list, and problem solving strategies.
Other Details
Supply List
Students will need a writing utensil, and there is a collection of worksheets to download and print before class.
1 file available upon enrollment
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined April, 2020
5.0
7reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I taught K-12 math for ten years, in both classroom and enrichment settings. Then over the past five years, I've completed my PhD in math, where my research is in geometry and topology. Encouraging mathematical curiosity and helping people to have positive math experiences are my passions.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$12
per classMeets once
50 min
Completed by 3 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-12
3-7 learners per class
