1. Grade/Age LevelThis lesson is for college Pre-Algebra students at a two-year community college. Many of the students have recently graduated from high school. A few of the students are older and are returning to school after an extended period of time. Many of the students have low confidence in their math skills.

2. Subject AreaThis lesson is designed for Pre-Algebra students in college. Most of the students have been introduced to the subject matter before, but a few are learning it for the first time. This lesson is specifically about identifying and combining like terms in algebraic expressions.

3. Time AllottedThis lesson is meant to be done within one 60 minute class period.

4. Lesson DescriptionThis lesson is to help students convert word problems into expressions by teaching them common words for mathematical operations. It will give them practice making expressions from word problems.

5. Instructional ObjectivesBy the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

a. Identify which words commonly represent mathematical operations in word problemsb. Identify which operation each of these common words representc. Write algebraic expressions from given word problems

6. Instructional Proceduresa. Introduction

The words to symbols graphic will be displayed on the overhead. As a class we will discuss and review the different words on the graphic and what they represent. We will review particularly the difference between less and less than and divided by and divided into since these often confusion in word problems.

b. Techniques and Activities

After we review the different words as a class, the students will be divided up into groups of 4-5 and given the words to symbols worksheet. This worksheet will have a list of the words reviewed as a class that the students will have to sort into the correct operation box. After the worksheet is finished will we discuss it as a class and do a couple practice problems together. Then the students will individually work on the practice problems for the lesson.

c. Conclusion

As a class, we will discuss any questions or concerns the students have about like changing words to symbols and writing expressions from word problems. We will review any questions or problems the students had with the practice problems.

7. AdaptationsWhen needed, adaptations will be made such as extended time, reading directions out loud, and any other accommodations needed.

8. Supplemental Activities

Students needing extra help can receive one-on-one instruction from the instructor by asking questions when working on the in class practice questions or meeting with the instructor outside of class. Students can also receive additional help form the on campus Math Lab.

9. Assessment/Evaluation Students will be informally assessed on their participation in the group discussions. The groups worksheet will be assessed based on participation of each student in the group. Student understanding will also be assessed based on the practice questions, which will be entered into the computer and graded electronically based on accuracy of the answers. At the end of the unit, students will be given a unit test.

10. Learner ProductsAt the end of the lesson, students will have the completed group worksheet and the completed practice problems on changing words to symbols.