8f218b3e-7953-4e30-af8b-b0909544e23d.html

<div class="os-raise-familysupport">
  <p><a href="https://phet.colorado.edu/sims/html/area-model-algebra/latest/area-model-algebra_en.html?screens=1,2,3" target="_blank">Access the interactive simulator </a>to begin this project.</p>
</div>

<p>In this activity, whenever you see &#128172;, stop and share your responses with your partner. If you have different responses, try to come to a consensus.</p>
<p>For questions 1-3, use the instructions below.</p>
<blockquote>Use the simulation screen labeled “Variables”. Note you can switch between simulation screens using the toolbar located below the area model.</blockquote>


<p>Use the <em>Variables Screen</em> to answer the following questions.</p>
<p>
  1. Play around with entering your own variable expressions, then answer the following. <br> <br>
  a. In an area model, how do the partial products (interior numbers) get calculated?<br> <br>
  b. In an area model, how does the total area get calculated?<br> <br>
  c.  How do the partial products relate to the total area of the area model? <br>
</p>


<p>
  2. Use the sim to model 6(x+8). What is the total area of this rectangle? Represent the total area in multiple ways. &#128172;<br>
  <img height="300" src="https://k12.openstax.org/contents/raise/resources/cf7bbb114082fb67e2ec1cc3f07fee7d54a3858a"><br>
  <br>
</p>

<p>
  3. Use the sim to model \((x+3)(x-5)\). What is the total area of this rectangle? Represent the total area in multiple ways. &#128172;<br>
  <img height="300" src="https://k12.openstax.org/contents/raise/resources/6b94112d13fd4e2278fecf9f89d55f70d1566205"><br>
   <br>


</p>
<p>
  4. Challenge yourself to work through levels 1 - 4 of the <a href="https://phet.colorado.edu/sims/html/area-model-algebra/latest/area-model-algebra_en.html?screens=4" target="_blank">Area Model Algebra Game</a>! <br>
</p>


<p>5. How is multiplying variable expressions using an area model similar to multiplying numbers using an area model? <br>

    <h4>Extension</h4> 

    <p>
      Challenge yourself to work backwards and factor an algebraic expression! 
      
    <br>
    <br>
    <img height="100" src="https://k12.openstax.org/contents/raise/resources/1d32b5338797703fac22f95c26199b0e97ec744a" height="200">
    <br>
    <br>
    The Area Model sim is playing tricks on you! It gives you the partial products, but not the side lengths. What numbers and/or variables must be on the outside of this rectangle? </p>