Conquering 3x3 Linear Systems: Elimination Domination!

Algebra 2 Grades High School 9:26 Video

Lesson Description

Master the elimination method to solve systems of three linear equations with three variables. Learn to strategically eliminate variables and back-substitute to find the solution.

Video Resource

Systems of Linear Equations with 3 Variables Using Elimination

Mario's Math Tutoring

Duration: 9:26
Watch on YouTube

Key Concepts

  • Systems of linear equations
  • Elimination method
  • Back-substitution
  • Strategic Variable Elimination

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to solve a system of three linear equations with three variables using the elimination method.
  • Students will be able to identify the most efficient variable to eliminate first.
  • Students will be able to accurately back-substitute to find the values of all three variables.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by reviewing systems of linear equations with two variables and the elimination method. Briefly discuss how this concept extends to three variables and three equations. Preview the video and its objectives.
  • Video Viewing & Note-Taking (15 mins)
    Play the "Systems of Linear Equations with 3 Variables Using Elimination" video by Mario's Math Tutoring. Instruct students to take detailed notes on the steps involved in the elimination method, paying close attention to the examples.
  • Guided Practice (20 mins)
    Work through the examples from the video on the board, step-by-step. Encourage student participation by asking them to explain each step and predict the next one. Emphasize the importance of choosing the easiest variable to eliminate and sticking with it throughout the problem. Discuss the importance of accurately multiplying equations to prepare for variable elimination.
  • Independent Practice (15 mins)
    Provide students with practice problems (similar to the video examples) to solve independently. Circulate the classroom to provide assistance and answer questions. Encourage students to check their answers with each other.
  • Wrap-up & Assessment (5 mins)
    Review the key concepts and steps of the elimination method. Administer the multiple-choice and fill-in-the-blank quizzes to assess student understanding.

Interactive Exercises

  • Group Elimination Challenge
    Divide the class into small groups and provide each group with a different system of three linear equations. Challenge them to solve the system using the elimination method, emphasizing teamwork and communication.

Discussion Questions

  • Why is it important to eliminate the same variable from all equations initially?
  • What are some strategies for choosing the easiest variable to eliminate?
  • How can you check your solution to ensure it is correct?

Skills Developed

  • Problem-solving
  • Algebraic manipulation
  • Critical thinking
  • Attention to detail

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

In the elimination method for 3x3 systems, what is the first crucial step after setting up the equations?

Correct Answer: Choosing a variable to eliminate.

Question 2:

When using the elimination method, why is it important to stick with eliminating the same variable throughout the initial steps?

Correct Answer: To reduce the system to two variables and two equations.

Question 3:

What operation is primarily used in the elimination method to get rid of a variable?

Correct Answer: Addition or subtraction.

Question 4:

After eliminating one variable, what type of system are you left with?

Correct Answer: A 2x2 system.

Question 5:

What is back-substitution used for in solving systems of equations?

Correct Answer: To solve for the remaining variables after elimination.

Question 6:

If you multiply one equation by a constant in the elimination method, you must:

Correct Answer: Multiply both sides of the equation by the constant.

Question 7:

What is the solution to a 3x3 system of equations represented as?

Correct Answer: An ordered triple (x, y, z).

Question 8:

Which of the following is NOT a valid operation when using the elimination method?

Correct Answer: Dividing only one side of an equation by a constant.

Question 9:

When checking your solution to a 3x3 system, you must substitute the values into:

Correct Answer: All three of the original equations.

Question 10:

If after performing elimination you obtain the equation 0 = 5, what does this indicate?

Correct Answer: The system has no solution.

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

The first step in the elimination method is to choose a _________ to eliminate.

Correct Answer: variable

Question 2:

In order to eliminate a variable, you may need to _________ one or more equations by a constant.

Correct Answer: multiply

Question 3:

After eliminating one variable, you will have a system of two equations with _________ variables.

Correct Answer: two

Question 4:

The process of substituting known values back into the equations to solve for the remaining variables is called _________-substitution.

Correct Answer: back

Question 5:

The solution to a 3x3 system of linear equations is represented as an ordered _________.

Correct Answer: triple

Question 6:

Before adding or subtracting equations, the coefficients of the variable you want to eliminate should be _________ or opposites.

Correct Answer: equal

Question 7:

If all variables are eliminated and you obtain a true statement (e.g., 0 = 0), the system has _________ many solutions.

Correct Answer: infinitely

Question 8:

To verify the solution, each value from the ordered triple must satisfy all _________ original equations.

Correct Answer: three

Question 9:

The goal of the elimination method is to simplify the system until you have only _________ equation with one variable.

Correct Answer: one

Question 10:

When a system has no solution, it is called _________.

Correct Answer: inconsistent