

You can then plot the points named by each ( x, y) pair on a coordinate grid. When you assign a value to the independent variable, x, you can compute the value of the dependent variable, y.

In other words, for every value of x, there is only one corresponding value of y. Whether or not it's labeled x, the independent variable is usually plotted along the horizontal axis. In this case, x is the independent variable, and y depends on it, so y is called the dependent variable. The graph of a linear equation is a straight line.Ī linear equation in two variables can be described as a linear relationship between x and y, that is, two variables in which the value of one of them (usually y) depends on the value of the other one (usually x). When you find pairs of values that make a linear equation true and plot those pairs on a coordinate grid, all of the points lie on the same line.No variable in a linear equation is raised to a power greater than 1 or used as the denominator of a fraction.A linear equation only has one or two variables.There are some key features common to all linear equations: Just like any other equation, a linear equation is made up of two expressions set equal to each other. Then it offers lesson ideas for introducing and developing the concept of linear equations in one variable to your students. This article explains what a linear equation is and walks through different examples. This topic integrates ideas about algebra, geometry, and functions and can be difficult for many children-and adults!-to wrap their heads around. ICLE (International Center for Leadership in Education)Ĭustomer Service & Technical Support Portalįor many students in Grades 8 and up, the numbers and shapes they've learned about really start to come together when they are making and solving linear equations. Into Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, 8-12 Science & Engineering Leveled Readers, K-5
