Solving Proportions submitted by: Jeff LeMieux, August 2003 This narrative describes how I use my javascript tool, cataloged in the Math Tools digital library, in the classroom. Course: Math 7 Topic: Ratio and Proportion Resource type: JavaScript Resource location: http://www2.whidbey.net/ohmsmath/webwork/javascript/proport.html Math Forum catalogue entry: http://mathforum.org/mathtools/tool.html?rc=tool&new_id=1576 Story:  The proportion equation is an extremely useful tool for many things. To help students learn this particular approach it is explained as both a type of equivalent fraction and/or solving a one-step equation for an unknown. It is important to emphasize that common elements must always be presented either vertically or horizontally, e.g. if describing a ratio of 6 lollipops to 3 students and wishing to find the proportionate number of lollipops for 9 students Where and how I used this: After the lesson introduction and practice this script is generally provided as a part of the lessons assignment page for the week on the web. It is presented as an alternative solution tool to both the pencil/paper and calculator methods of soltion. As part of a practice/review session, there is another script available http://syzygy.virtualave.net/propr.htm which provides problems (and answers). Typically, students will be assigned these as a speed drill to enhance problem set-up and labelling of answers. They appear to enjoy the quirky nature of these problems - probably due to the random association of objects. The two graphics on this page are the property of Jeff LeMieux and are available free for educational use. Most browsers allow you to right click on the image and save it to your machine. Send comments to Jeff LeMieux at tackweed@whidbey.net Jeff LeMieux August 2003 http://www2.whidbey.net/ohmsmath