MAP 8th Grade Math

A comprehensive course covering essential 8th grade math concepts to prepare students for high school and real-world problem solving.

Advanced Topics

Systems of Linear Equations

What Are Systems of Equations?

A system of equations is two or more linear equations that share variables. The solution is where they overlap—where both are true at the same time.

Solving Methods

  • Graphing: Plot both lines and find the intersection.
  • Substitution: Replace one variable with its equivalent from the other equation.
  • Elimination: Add or subtract equations to eliminate a variable.

Example

Solve: \[ \begin{cases} x + y = 8 \ x - y = 2 \end{cases} \] Add both equations: \( 2x = 10 \) so \( x = 5 \). Substitute into one equation: \( 5 + y = 8 \) so \( y = 3 \).

Application

Systems help solve problems with multiple unknowns, like mixing recipes or comparing prices.

Key Formula

\[\begin{cases} ax + by = c \ dx + ey = f \end{cases}\]

Examples

  • Solving for ticket prices given total cost and number of tickets.

  • Finding where two phone plans cost the same.

In a Nutshell

Systems of equations help solve problems with more than one unknown.

Key Terms

System of Equations
A set of equations with the same variables, solved together.
Substitution
A method to solve systems by replacing variables.