Intro to Functions (Algebra)

At a glance:

Topics: functions, inputs and outputs, function notation, algebra

Grades: 7-9

Standards: CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.F.A.1

Duration to complete: 10-15 minutes

Learning outcome: Students will learn what a function is. Students will see the relationship between inputs and outputs in different functions and learn how to use function notation.

Intro for students: Become a fan of functions with Intro to Functions! Learn how functions operate on inputs and produce outputs. Start by making your own function and then play with numbers to solve a handful of function puzzles. Visualize this important concept in a fun new way! #functions #input #output #algebra #math #e-learning #experiential #function-notation

What makes this topic challenging for kids?

Functions are tricky because they’re symbolic. They’re abstract. They’re surrounded by unfamiliar terminology and notation, and their usefulness is not immediately apparent.

What’s our approach?

Our experience presents functions in an approachable way by using the illustration of a “magic black box”. Numbers go in, and numbers come out. This illustration is the basis for demonstrating function notation. The student is given four ways to conceptualize functions at once -- the “magic black box”, a reactive slider graph, a table, and good old function notation.

Intro to Functions provides a buffet of simple visual models to help students conquer this oft-misunderstood topic.