L1 · Changing quantities: independent and dependent variables
“I can look at a situation where two quantities change together, say which quantity is the independent variable and which is the dependent variable, and explain why - using the words 'depends on'. I also know that each independent value gives exactly one dependent value.”
Sam earns $12 for each hour he works at the pool. Step 1: Name the two changing quantities: hours worked and pay earned. Step 2: Ask the depends-on question. Sam first chooses how many hours to work; the pay is then figured out from the hours. Pay depends on hours. Step 3: So hours worked is the independent variable (the input), and pay earned is the dependent variable (the output). Step 4: Use it. If Sam works 5 hours, his pay is 5 x $12 = $60. The table begins: 1 hour -> $12, 2 hours -> $24, 5 hours -> $60.
Hours worked is the independent variable because...
A babysitter earns $10 per hour. Which quantity is independent, and what does she earn for 6 hours? -> Hours babysitting is independent; pay depends on it. 6 x $10 = $60.
"A sunflower's height depends on the number of weeks since it was planted. The dependent variable is ___." -> the height of the sunflower
10 scored questions with a 3-rung hint ladder. Mastery needs 8/10 plus both gate questions.