The worksheet titled "Understanding Algebra and Arithmetic Patterns Through Multi-Step Word Problems" provides students with a relevant situation and multiple word problems that help them think through what happens in algebraic equations.

The first problem explains a game that a person has created where players collect stars that can be traded in for gold coins in a shop. The number of stars and the number of gold coins are displayed on a table with a few missing numbers. Students start by analyzing the pattern and filling in the numbers.

Additional problems challenge student thinking by:

* Asking students the highest number of gold coins they can get with a certain number of stars.

* Asking how many stars they need to collect to win the game when the number of coins they need is given.

The last problem requires students to fill in a new table that shows the relationship between a different number of stars and gold coins. For example, the equation "Stars=Goldx7" may accompany the table above. The empty table below might ask students to fill in the numbers for the equation "Stars=Goldx10."

A second series of questions is presented for another situation that has to do with money. The number of Quinkoos from the Planet Zinkee is compared to U.S. dollars. Students fill in the missing numbers in the table and answer additional questions like, "Write an equation showing the relationship between U.S. dollars and Quinkoos."

Algebra can be a difficult concept to understand, especially as it relates to real-world problems. Creating word problems that help students think through equations can show them how they can use algebra to solve problems in real life.

You might compare objects, like coins and stars, on a table where both the top and bottom of the table follow different patterns. Students can fill in the missing numbers and use an equation like "Stars=Coinsx3" to find the answer to a question that represents a number that is not on the table.

Comparing U.S. dollars to other currencies around the world can be a powerful way to practice algebraic pattern recognition. You could also make up an alien currency if you want to work on certain pattern recognition skills, like doubling.