Contextualization

First-degree equations, also known as linear equations, are basic tools in mathematics that describe a linear relationship between two or more variables. In simple terms, an equation is defined as the equality of two mathematical expressions. In particular, a first-degree equation is an equation that can be written in the form ax + b = c. Its main objective is to find the value of x that satisfies the equation.

In the real world, first-degree equations are omnipresent. For example, they can be used to calculate the cost of a product in a store with a discount, the time needed to travel a certain distance at a constant speed, or even how to calculate the interest rate on a loan. Therefore, the ability to solve these equations is a fundamental skill that all students should possess.

Understanding first-degree equations allows students to advance to more complex mathematical concepts. In addition, solving equations is an integral part of many professions, such as engineering, physics, economics, and even medicine. Therefore, the study and understanding of first-degree equations are essential for preparation for adult life and future career.

Practical Activity

Activity Title:

"Solving the Riddle: The World of First-Degree Equations"

Project Objective:

Through the realization of a playful and collaborative practical activity, students should be able to understand, solve, and create problems that can be represented by first-degree equations.

Detailed Project Description:

In this project, students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 participants, and each group should develop a series of real-world problems that can be solved using first-degree equations. Subsequently, they will exchange the problems among themselves to solve them.

Necessary Materials:

• Notebook or sheets of paper for notes and calculations
• Pens and pencils
• Calculator
• Computer with internet access for research (optional)

Step by Step

1. Research and Problem Creation: Each group should research real-world situations that can be translated into first-degree equations. Each group must create five problems, writing the situation and formulating the corresponding equation without solving it. A detailed explanation of the reasoning used to formulate the equation should accompany each problem.

2. Problem Exchange: The groups will exchange the problems they created.

3. Problem Solving: Each group must solve the received problems. They should show the entire resolution process, explaining each step in detail.

4. Report Elaboration: Each group will write a report, presenting the created problems, the corresponding first-degree equations, the resolution of the received problems, and a discussion on what they learned from the activity.

Project Delivery:

The results of the practical activity will be presented in a report written by the students. This report should contain the following topics:

1. Introduction: Students should contextualize the theme, explaining the importance of first-degree equations in the real world and the objective of this project.

2. Development: In this section, each group must present the problems they created, the corresponding first-degree equations, and the explanation of the reasoning used. In addition, students must explain the resolution of the problems they received from other groups, detailing each step.

3. Conclusion: Students should revisit the main points of the project, discuss what they learned from the practical activity, and the conclusions they drew from the project.

4. Bibliography: Students should list the sources from which they gathered information for the project, such as books, videos, websites.