Initial Publication Date: April 12, 2016
What should the student get out of this module?
After completing this module, a student should be able to:
- Solve simultaneous equations using the substitution method.
- Solve simultaneous equations using the elimination method.
- Recognize examples of equations that are commonly rearranged in macroeconomics and microeconomics.
What we don't include on this page
This module demonstrates how to solve a system of 2 linear equations in 2 unknowns. It does not demonstrate how to solve a system of nonlinear equations, nor does it demonstrate how to solve a system of more than 2 equations.
Why is it difficult for students?
- Algebraic thinking is a different kind of thinking that requires abstract thought. Students can struggle with solving simultaneous equations because they struggle with abstract nature of variables.
- Students also struggle with solving simultaneous equations because it requires them to rearrange equations, a skill that is difficult for some.