Math Example--Percents--Equations with Percents: Example 9

Topic

Solving Equations

Description

This math example focuses on solving percent equations, specifically asking "What is 150% of 8?" The solution involves converting 150% to its decimal form, 1.5, and then multiplying it by 8 to get the result of 12. This example introduces a percentage greater than 100%, demonstrating how the method applies consistently even when dealing with percentages that represent values larger than the whole.

Solving equations with percents is a crucial skill in mathematics that finds applications in numerous real-world scenarios, from calculating interest rates to understanding growth rates in various fields. These examples help students grasp the fundamental concept of converting percentages to decimals and applying them to given values, even when the percentages exceed 100%. This understanding forms the foundation for more complex mathematical operations and problem-solving in various fields, including finance, statistics, and scientific research.

Providing multiple worked-out examples is essential for students to fully comprehend this concept. Each new example reinforces the process while introducing different percentage values, including those above 100%. This approach allows students to recognize patterns, adapt their problem-solving strategies, and build confidence in handling diverse percentage-based calculations, preparing them for more advanced mathematical challenges they may encounter in real-world situations.

Teacher Script: "Let's look at our next example. We need to find 150% of 8. What's our first step? Right, we convert the percentage to a decimal. So, 150% becomes 1.5. Now, we multiply this by our base number, 8. Can anyone tell me what 1.5 × 8 equals? Great job, it's 12. Notice how we're using the same method, but with a percentage greater than 100% this time. This shows that our approach works consistently, even when dealing with percentages that represent values larger than the whole. In real-life situations, you might encounter growth rates or increases that exceed 100%, so it's important to be comfortable working with these types of percentages."

For a complete collection of math examples related to Solving Equations click on this link: Math Examples: Equations with Percents Collection.