Algebraic Reasoning: Algebraic Translation [TEKS Tools Grade 6]

Aaron Daffern
2 days ago
2 min read

This post specifically looks at how algebraic reasoning can be used to translate problem situations to algebraic representations. Read more about TEKS Tools and their rationale here.

Algebraic Reasoning

Algebraic reasoning accounts for around 27% of each 6th grade STAAR test. This thinking does not use a visible tool but instead relies on applying algebraic concepts to expressions, equations, and inequalities.

The main function of algebraic reasoning is to identify relationships in problem situations, apply the properties of operations and equality, and solve equations and inequalities.

Problem Translations

Algebraic reasoning can be applied to translate word problems to algebraic equations and inequalities.

6.4A - compare two rules verbally, numerically, graphically, and symbolically in the form of y = ax or y = x + a in order to differentiate between additive and multiplicative relationships

o equations were given, students had to interpret their meanings

6.6C - represent a given situation using verbal descriptions, tables, graphs, and equations in the form y = kx or y = x + b

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2024-16: a problem situation (one-variable) was given, students had to translate it into an equation

6.7B - distinguish between expressions and equations verbally, numerically, and algebraically

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2023-12: four situations were given, students had to identify one that was an equation

6.9A - write one-variable, one-step equations and inequalities to represent constraints or conditions within problems

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2024-30: a situation was given, students had to translate it into an equation

2025-17: a situation was given, students had to translate it into an inequality

6.10A - model and solve one-variable, one-step equations and inequalities that represent problems, including geometric concepts

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2025-22: a situation was given, students had to translate it into an inequality

6.14A - compare the features and costs of a checking account and a debit card offered by different local financial institutions

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2023-24: a situation was given, students had to compare to quantities and interpret the comparison

Data Translations

Algebraic reasoning can be applied to summarize and interpret data representations.

6.12D - summarize categorical data with numerical and graphical summaries, including the mode, the percent of values in each category (relative frequency table), and the percent bar graph, and use these summaries to describe the data distribution

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2024-17: a percent bar graph was given, students had to interpret the data in a problem situation