Supply and Demand

This activity uses supply and demand data to give a real-world application for solving a system of linear equations. The scenario could be interchanged quite easily with other topics that may interest a selected group of students.

Weblink address (URL): 
Supply and Demand

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

By the end of this lesson, students will:

  • Explain factors that affect supply and demand.
  • Find linear equations for given sets of supply and demand data.
  • Find the equilibrium point for a system of supply and demand equations.
  • Translate between table, graph, and equation representations for supply and demand data.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 
  • Introduce students to systems of inequalities
  • Have students work with systems of equations with 3 variables and 3 unknowns
  • Show students how to use a calculator as a tool to solve the system

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Class Fundraiser Activity Sheet 
  • Game Cartridges and Silver Dollars Activity Sheet 
  • Answer Keys
  • Straightedge for drawing lines
  • Transparency of Activity Sheet 1 (optional)

References

Contributors: 
Eric Istre
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation