8.5.F

Math8th Grade

The Standard

distinguish between proportional and non-proportional situations using tables, graphs, and equations in the form y = kx or y = mx + b, where b ≠ 0

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Mathematics

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do

Students decide whether a relationship has a constant ratio of y to x. They use tables, graphs, and equations, then justify each decision using the origin, unit rate, or starting value.

What Mastery Looks Like

A student correctly classifies a relationship from any of the three representations. They point to a constant y/x ratio, a line through (0,0), or a nonzero starting value as evidence.

Common Misconceptions

Students often call every straight line proportional, even when it does not pass through the origin. They may compare constant differences instead of y/x, or mistake the slope for the starting value.

How to Assess It

Exit ticket: Classify the table x: 0, 1, 2 and y: 3, 5, 7, then classify y = 4x. Give one piece of evidence for each answer.

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

  1. Students sort table, graph, and equation cards into proportional and nonproportional groups, then match cards showing the same relationship.

  2. Ask, "Is every linear relationship proportional?" Students use one graph and one equation to defend their answer.

  3. Display a representation, then teams hold up P or N cards and earn a point by stating correct evidence.

  4. Compare a taxi fare with a base fee to pay earned at a fixed hourly rate, then represent and classify each relationship.

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