Performance Stations in Math
Algebra
Grade 8
by
Liliane Gauthier
Teacher / Educational Consultant
Saskatoon Board of Education

 
1. Algebra
Grade 8
A-2

   Materials:

 
A friend of yours did not understand how to evaluate each of the following on a quiz.

  when  
5 n - 12.3  when  n = 8.6
(p - 6)  when  p = -1.5
1.Write a step by step explanation to help your friend understand the process.
2.Your friend does not know exactly what a variable is. Explain the term variable and give several examples.
 

 
2. Algebra
Grade 8
A-4

   Materials:
  cubes or pattern blocks
 
1.Use the cubes or pattern blocks to demonstrate each of the following statements. Draw to record and write a mathematical expression for each one:
 a)5 times a number less 2
 b)a number that is multiplied by 2 and divided by 4
 c)a number that it multiplied by itself
 d)half a number decreased by 3
 e)one quarter of a number plus one half of that number
 
2.Use the cubes or pattern blocks to demonstrate each of the following mathematical expressions. Draw to record and write a statement for each one:
 a)
 b)
 c)0.07t
 c)2(l+w)
 c)(b - 4) ÷ 3
 
3.Make up a matching question for a test that requires students to match written expressions, drawings and mathematical expressions. Remember your work needs to be clear and organised neatly.
 

 
4. Algebra
Grade 8
A-4

   Materials:
  toothpicks
 
1.Construct an equilateral triangle using the toothpicks.
Record by drawing on your answer sheet.
2.Using the toothpicks, construct another equilateral triangle that has sides that are twice as long as your first triangle.
Record by drawing on your answer sheet.
3.Repeat number 2 making the triangle still larger.
Record by drawing on your answer sheet.
4.Examine the relation between the number of toothpicks on one side with the number of toothpicks in the perimeter.
5.Write an expression to represent the number of toothpicks on any one side in terms of the number of toothpicks making up the perimeter of the triangle.
6.Repeat 1 to 5 constructing squares.
7.a)Write an expression to represent the number of toothpicks on any one side in terms of the number of toothpicks making up the perimeter of the square.
 b)How does this compare to your answer in #5?
8.Repeat 1 to 5 constructing hexagons.
9.a)Write an expression to represent the number of toothpicks on any one side in terms of the number of toothpicks making up the perimeter of the hexagon.
9.b)How does this compare to your answer in #5 and 7b?
 
 
 
7. Algebra
Grade 8
A-5

   Materials:
  lego or rectangular blocks
 
Ms Fix would like a brick border for one side of her garden. She does not know yet which of the two basic patterns to choose: Classic or Modern.

In order to make the brick border long enough, she has to repeat the basic pattern a number of times. The length of the side of the garden is 14.20 metres.
  At the brickyard, Ms Fix can choose from three different kinds of bricks.

Write a letter to Ms Fix in which you explain to her what to do. Include in your letter what bricks she can buy, how many, and justify your solution to her design problem. Assume that the bricks fit tight against each other and that there is no space left between them.


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