Understanding and Solving Algebraic Equations

This video tutorial teaches how to write equations to solve real-world problems. It outlines a step-by-step approach, including understanding the problem, forming a strategy, choosing variables, translating information into equations, solving the equations, and writing the answer in a complete sentence. Two examples are provided: calculating the number of months a car can be leased with a given budget and determining how long it takes for a TV to depreciate to half its original value.

What is the first step in solving problems using algebraic equations?

• Solve the equation

• Choose a variable to represent the unknown

• Read and understand the problem

• Form a strategy to solve the problem

In the first example, what is the initial cost associated with leasing the Ford Mustang?

• $10,000

• $7,689

• $276

• $2,311

What variable is chosen to represent the number of months in the first example?

• X

• M

• N

• Y

After solving the equation in the first example, how many months can the car be leased?

• 28 months

• 27 months

• 26 months

• 29 months

What is the original cost of the television in the second example?

• $250

• $800

• $1,600

• $3,200

How much does the television's value decrease each year?

• $200

• $300

• $250

• $150

What variable is used to represent the number of years in the second example?

• X

• Y

• M

• Z

How many years does it take for the television to be worth half of its original value?

• 2.5 years

• 3.2 years

• 3 years

• 4 years

What is the final step in solving problems using algebraic equations?

• Choose a variable

• Form a strategy

• Write the answer in a complete sentence

• Solve the equation

In the second example, what is the equation set up to find?

• The original cost of the television

• The number of years for the television to lose all value

• The annual depreciation rate

• The time it takes for the television to be worth half its original value