Using Comparison and Contrast to Explain How to Solve Linear Equations
Assignment: Your task will be to explain when and how to use the two algebraic methods (substitution and elimination) for solving a system of equations by comparing and contrasting them. Think of your classmates (or Nancy) as your audience as you analyze the similarities and differences between the two methods to help them make decisions about what method they can use on any given system of equations.
Organizing your Writing: Though you may use either the point-by-point or subject by-subject organization strategy, for this brief assignment, we recommend the subject-by-subject approach (not usually recommended for long comparison and contrast essays. See the worksheet for an outline on page 2.
Possible details to include: You can describe what you look for when deciding whether to use elimination or substitution. You can discuss the similarities and differences you note when you are using the two methods. You can discuss when one method is advantageous to use over the other.
Notes:
Assessment:
Deann will be looking for the correctness of your descriptions of each method. Furthermore, your explanations about the differences and similarities of each method need to be mathematically correct. You should identify specific situations when one method is better (easier) to use than the other. As usual, Nancy will be wanting to see highly readable, grammatical sentences, coherent paragraphs and an overall smooth train of thought. For this assignment she will also be checking for effective organization strategy (either the subject by subject or point by point).
In class Writing #3 Name: ____________________________________
FORM
_____ / 3 Clarity of your sentences and train of thought
_____ / 3 Effectiveness of overall organization (subj. by subj. or point by point)
CONTENT
_____ / 3 Descriptions of substitution method are mathematically accurate, and the advantages/disadvantages of this method are correctly explained.
_____ / 3 Descriptions of elimination method are mathematically accurate, and the advantages/disadvantages of this method are correctly explained.
Worksheet for an Outline
¶ 1 Introductory/background comments: _______________________________
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Summary of your conclusion (when to use which method): ___________________
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¶ 2 Subject #1: Substitution (or elimination)
q Brief description of the subject: ________________________________
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q Point: ____________________________________________________
q Point: ____________________________________________________
¶ 3 Subject #2; Elimination (or substitution)
q Brief description: ___________________________________________
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q Point: ____________________________________________________
q Point: ____________________________________________________
¶ 4 Compare and contrast subjects 1 and 2 as you conclude when it is best to use which method. ________________________________________________
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