Scalar Multiplication Lesson

Learning Resource Type

Learning Activity

Subject Area

Mathematics

Grade(s)

9, 10, 11, 12

Overview

This learning activity will be used during a lesson on Scalar Multiplication. Students will explore how to multiply a scalar into matrices in order to produce new matrices. The teacher will use the Scalar Multiplication Lesson to cover the “I Do” and “We Do” portions of the lesson.

This activity was created as a result of the ALEX Resource Development Summit.

Phase

During/Explore/Explain
Mathematics (2019) Grade(s): 09-12 - Algebra II with Statistics

MA19.A2.3

Multiply matrices by scalars to produce new matrices.

UP:MA19.A2.3

Vocabulary

  • Scalars

Knowledge

Students know:

  • The aspects of a matrix with regard to entries, rows, columns, dimensions, elements, and subscript notations.

Skills

Students are able to:

  • Write percents as decimals.
  • Increase or decrease an amount by multiplying by a percent (i.e., increase of 10% would multiply by 1.1).

Understanding

Students understand:

  • Multiplying a matrix by a scalar affects every element in the matrix equally.
  • Scalar multiplication is a tool that allows all elements of a matrix to be changed in a simple manner.

Body

  1. Multiply matrices by scalars to produce new matrices.

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to multiply matrices by scalars to produce new matrices. 

Activity Details

I Do:

  • The teacher will demonstrate how to multiply a scalar into matrices by providing examples visually and explaining verbally in detail using the Scalar Multiplication Lesson Google Doc
  • Students will observe, take notes, using their math journals or paper, and ask questions.
  • The teacher will have the students turn and talk about any misconceptions they may have at this point in the lesson. 

We Do:

    • The teacher will say, "We will now collaborate and discuss various types of scalar multiplication using the 'We Do' section of the Scalar Multiplication Lesson."
    • The teacher will issue whiteboards, pens, and erasers to the class. 
    • The teacher will ask students to work the “We Do” problems on their whiteboards holding them up as they find each answer for the teacher to check. (This will be used as a formative assessment to see if students understand the lesson.)
    • Important: The teacher will need to verbally discuss any problems and have students explain their thinking to ensure solidification of understanding.

You Do:

  • The teacher will hand out the Scalar Multiplication Lesson Worksheet.
  • The teacher will monitor students as they complete the worksheet.
  • The teacher will remind the students the worksheet will be graded for accuracy.

Assessment Strategies

  • The teacher will monitor students as they complete the “You Do”  to provide timely feedback to help eliminate any misconceptions.
  • Upon completion, the teacher will take up the completed worksheet and ensure at least 80% mastery of the skill.

Variation Tips

The Scalar Multiplication Lesson and Scalar Multiplication Lesson Worksheet could be assigned through Google Classroom.

Background / Preparation

  • The teacher will need copies of the worksheet Scalar Multiplication Lesson Worksheet in advance. 
  • The teacher will provide each student with a copy of the worksheet, a whiteboard, a dry erase pen, and an eraser for the “We Do” section.
  • The students will need math journals if used for notes or paper if math journals are not used.
  • The teacher will need Internet access and the required equipment to display the Scalar Multiplication Lesson.

Total Duration

31 to 45 Minutes
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