Category Archives: Algebra

Introducing Dynagraphs

Students often have difficulty connecting the Cartesian graph of a function to the actual motion of the variables. Their challenge in visualizing and describing covariation (the way y varies as x varies steadily) relates to their understanding of function families: function families are distinguished by the nature of their covariation. A function whose growth rate remains constant … Continue Reading ››

Adding and Subtracting Integers

A recent post on an NCTM discussion group asked about tools to help students visualize and understand addition and subtraction of integers. We wanted to make a visualization tool for students that they could use in multiple ways. The result is the Web Sketchpad model below (and here).  Page one focuses on addition while … Continue Reading ››