We encounter situations everyday in which we extract measurements, either exactly or approximately. We then compare these measurements and draw conclusions. With enough conclusions, we develop plans and proceed to discover more details.

Comparing measurements is at the heart of any investigation.

Comparing measurements requires us to notice relationships within the situation. There is no way to learn steps that systematically lead to the proper relationship in any situation. Instead, you have a roldex of known relationships in your head and you attempt to “see” these in the situation.

Our tools for describing and comparing measurements are functions. And, when used in this fashion, we refer to them as models.

Learning Outcomes

In this section, students will

• find relationships in situations.