CCSS.Math.Content.6.EE.C

Math6th GradeExpressions and Equations

The standard

Represent and analyze quantitative relationships between dependent and independent variables.

Common Core State Standards for Mathematics

What this standard means

Students need to connect two changing quantities, decide which one controls the other, and show the relationship with tables, graphs, equations, and words. They should see that one variable can depend on another, like total cost depending on number of tickets.

Mastery looks like moving between a situation, a table, a graph, and an equation without losing the meaning of the variables. Students often mix up independent and dependent variables, label graph axes backwards, or write an equation that matches the numbers but not the story.

Ways to teach it

  • Use cups and counters to model y = 3x, then have students build a table and graph from their stacks.
  • Ask, “Which variable depends on the other, and how do you know?” using taxi fare, babysitting pay, or snack prices.
  • Give one table and one graph, and have students write the equation and identify the independent variable in two minutes.
  • Have students compare phone data plans by writing equations for total monthly cost based on gigabytes used.

Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.6.EE.C

Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.

Related standards

Standard text verified against corestandards.org on July 10, 2026.

Page updated July 10, 2026.

Send Feedback