Mathematics 436

Mathematical Reflections 436: Reflection 6

Introduction
This document is a tool designed to help give teachers a clear description of what should be
covered in Reflection 6 of the Reflections 436 textbook. The textbook offers more material than
can be covered in most regular classes. However, this summary should be seen as a guide only;
the amount of time available as well as the students' interests and capabilities will determine the
material which is covered. Further information about the material is found in the Teacher's Guide.

Objectives Covered in Reflection 6

This reflection covers the Objective 1.4: To solve problems involving a system of equations in two
variables. Students will be able to represent a situation by a system of equations and solve the
system algebraically or by graphing. The systems may consist of either two first degree equations
in two variables or one first degree and one second degree equation in two variables.

It is important to refer to the MEQ Curriculum document for more details on the objectives
of the program (pp. 22 - 23).

Time 8% of the year.

Comments
1. There are several distinct differences between the 416 and 436 programmes with respect to
systems of equations:
a) The 416 course deals with systems of linear relations only. The 436 course deals with
systems of equations in two variables, either both first degree or one first degree and
one second degree equation.
b) In 416, only one method of solving systems algebraically is covered: by comparison. In
436, three algebraic methods are presented, although students may use the method of
their choice. However, since the use of technology is encouraged, the comparison
method may be used most frequently.

2. The phrase “solving a system of equations” involves more than finding a solution set; it
incorporates the analysis of tables of values and the analysis and interpretation of graphs.
Frequently the question asked in a problem deals with the region on one or another side of
the point of intersection. Eg. “When is it more beneficial to rent from Company A?”

3. The topic on linear regression is not part of the 436 programme. This topic, along with
correlation, is part of the 536 programme.

4. The use of graphing calculators can greatly enhance the teaching / learning of this objective.

5. Note:

As the students taking Math 436 generally constitute the top 35 - 40% of the school’s
population, they should be expected to work more autonomously on assignments in
order to cover the course content. Optional topics could be assigned for independent
study.

This document has been prepared by Carolyn Gould, Resource Person for MAPCO.
It is available on the MAPCO website: www.qesn.meq.gouv.qc.ca/mapco/
 Mathematics 436

Mathematical Reflections 436: Reflection 6

Topic Time Priority 1 Optional Omit

Class Homework
1. Linear Systems 2% √ Defining a Linear Investment 1: 3, 7,
(pp. 114 - 124) System 9, 12
Solving with a Table Think Tank: p. 124
of Values
Solving Graphically
Investment 1: 1, 2,
4-6, 8, 10, 11

2. Solving 2% √ Comparison Method Investment 2: 4, 8,

Algebraically Substitution 9
(pp. 125 - 133) Method Think Tank: p. 130
Investment 2: 1-3, Investment 3: 3, 6
5-7
Reduction Method
Investment 3: 1, 2,
4, 5
Think Tank: p. 133

3. Particular 0.5% √ Parallel Lines* Investment 4:

Linear Systems Coincident Lines* 4,5,7,8
(pp. 134 - 139) Broken Lines* Think Tank: p. 139
Investment 4: 1-3,
6, 9, 10

4. Linear 1.5% √ Workout 16: 1-7, 9, Workout 16: 8, 11, Scatter Plots
Regression** 10, 12-14, 16-20, 15, 21, 23-25, 27, and Lines
(pp. 139 - 155) 22, 26, 28, 30 29, 31-40 Investment 5
Pop Quiz 6 (pp. 139-144)

5. Other Systems 2% √ Semi-linear Investment 6: 4, 5,

(pp. 156 - 182) Systems*** 7
Graphic Method Think Tank: p. 162
Table of Values Investment 7: 4, 8,
Investment 6: 1-3, 10
6, 8 Think Tank: p. 170
Comparison Method Workout 17: 9. 10.
Substitution 13. 17, 18, 21, 22
Method
Number of Solutions
Investment 7: 1-3,
5-7, 9
Workout 17: 1-8,
11, 12, 14-16, 19,
20, 23
Pop Quiz 17
This document has been prepared by Carolyn Gould, Resource Person for MAPCO.
It is available on the MAPCO website: www.qesn.meq.gouv.qc.ca/mapco/
 Mathematics 436

Mathematical Reflections 436: Reflection 6

* Although these particular cases should be discussed in class, do not emphasize the topic.

** Linear regression and scatter plots are part of the 536 programme.

*** The equation associated with the budworms should read PB = -4t2 + 32t + 1436.

This document has been prepared by Carolyn Gould, Resource Person for MAPCO.
It is available on the MAPCO website: www.qesn.meq.gouv.qc.ca/mapco/