Learning area: Algebra

Time: 30 minutes

Grade Level: 8th grade

This interactive math activity can be set up in a classroom, library, or even outdoors. “Crack The Case” is designed for students in 8th grade to practice solving algebra equations in a fun, collaborative way. This activity can be modified to fit students at all levels by adjusting the complexity of the equations.

The Scenario

The infamous Coefficient Killer has been terrorizing the public for years, always leaving a signature calling card at each crime scene: algebra equations. According to a letter sent to the police by the alleged killer, each equation is a clue to the killer’s secret identity.

Investigators have identified five lead suspects, and now it’s up to the world’s best detectives (the students) to solve the cypher and identify the killer’s name.

For easy organization and reuse, all game components can be neatly stored in a Case•it binder. Use tabbed dividers to separate difficulty levels by grade, keep cards in binder pockets or zippered pouches, and store reusable materials, such as laminated pieces, in clear sleeves. This makes setup quick, keeps materials protected, and allows you to bring the activity wherever your classroom learning takes place.

Materials

• Case Briefing Sheet
• Lead Suspect Sheet
  • You may either:
    • Use either the included suspect list
    • Make your own characters. Names should have the same number of letters as there are equations.
• Crypto-Decoder Sheet
• Equation Cards
  • These cards are meant to be the “crime scene evidence” used to decode the killer’s identity
  • Cut them out and randomize order
  • You may either:
    • Use the included equation cards (5 sets included with different suspects as the answer)
    • Create your own equations
• Manila Folders (for case file)
  • Each student team should receive a “Case File” that contains the Crypto-Decoder, Lead Suspect Sheet, and Equation Cards (evidence).
  • Try decorating the folders by writing “Classified” or “Evidence” to improve immersion

Instructions

• Select a character from the “Lead Suspect” sheet
  • Consider giving each group a different killer
• Cut equation cards out of the provided sheets for the killer(s) you selected.
  • Ensure that each suspect’s equations do not mix
  • Shuffle each suspect’s cards
• Pack case file folders with:
  • Included Case briefing
  • Included Suspect List
  • Included Decoder sheet
  • Shuffled equation cards
• Divide students into 3-4 teams
• Distribute case file folders to each team
• Explain the activity (instructions to be given to the class)
  • Read the included case briefing aloud to the class
  • Explain that:
    • Each answer to the equations will be between 1 and 26.
    • Each answer corresponds to a letter in the alphabet, as seen on the included “Crypto-Decoder” sheet.

Object of the Game:

• After solving all 10 algebra equations, the students will be left with scrambled letters. Unscrambling the letters will reveal the name of the killer.

Teacher Tip:

• Consider laminating activity materials for easy reuse!