pdf Analyze Patterns

Examine how a function relates to a real-life situation.  Students must examine the different parts of the function to answer given 

This worksheet introduces students to function tables through a real-world aerospace scenario. Students analyze how passenger capacity depends on the number of jets built, using the function \(p = 10j + 40j + 300j\) to represent first class, business class, and economy seating on each plane.

Students complete a function table to determine total passengers for multiple jets, substitute values for \(j\), and interpret what the variable represents. They also determine how many passengers a single plane can hold and apply part of the function, such as \(40j\), to answer questions about specific seating sections. Finally, students explore rewriting the function in simplified form as \(p = 350j\), reinforcing the concept of combining like terms and understanding equivalent expressions.

Because the task blends numerical substitution, algebraic reasoning, and real-world interpretation, it strengthens students’ understanding of patterns, variables, and functional relationships. This resource works well as guided practice when introducing function tables, independent practice, or enrichment for students ready to connect arithmetic patterns to algebraic thinking.

Skills Assessed

• Interpreting and evaluating function tables

• Substituting values into algebraic expressions

• Combining like terms

• Writing equivalent expressions

• Understanding relationships between variables

• Modeling real-world situations with functions

Classroom Use

• Introduction to function tables

• Guided practice with algebraic reasoning

• Independent practice

• Enrichment activity

• Assessment review

Details

2 pages
Answer key included

ID# 0547