Applied Pre-Algebra (9 - 14)

This self-paced companion course connects mathematics and engineering through hands-on Arduino projects. Designed to run alongside Intro to Arduino Uno R3 (Level 1), students apply core pre-algebra concepts—including ratios, proportions, inequalities, and data analysis—to real electronic circuits and coding challenges.

Each week reinforces math through interactive, measurable experiences: calculating resistor values, analyzing timing loops, graphing sensor data, and applying equations to real-world motion and light control. Students strengthen number sense, logical reasoning, and applied problem-solving while deepening their understanding of how math powers modern technology.

By the end of this companion course, students will:

• Strengthen number sense, ratios, and proportions through real circuit building.
   
• Practice algebraic thinking by connecting sensor values to code (if/else as inequalities).
   
• Explore angles, timing, and measurement as they program motion and light.
   
• Collect, organize, and graph data from Arduino projects.
   
• Build confidence applying math concepts in hands-on, real-world contexts.

Arduino Level 1 (6 Weeks): Core Fundamentals (as already posted on your site)

Week 1 — Tools + LEDs (“Get to Know Your Tools,” “Spaceship Interface”)
Week 2 — Digital outputs + timing (blink patterns; “Spaceship Interface”)
Week 3 — Inputs & basic sensing (buttons + photoresistor; “Light Theremin”)
Week 4 — Motion output (servo intro; “Motorized Pinwheel”)
Week 5 — Integrations (sensor → motor; simple state machine)
Week 6 — Final project (student-designed; minimum 1 input + 1 output)

Parallel Math Track: Applied Pre-Algebra with Circuits

     Week Math Focus Applied Project Concepts 

Week 1 – Numbers in Circuits Introduction to Ohm’s Law (V = IR); multiplication & division with resistor values Students calculate current, voltage, and resistance to match LED brightness safely.

Week 2 – Patterns & Timing Converting milliseconds to seconds; identifying multiples and patterns Students record blink rates and create pattern tables to model time intervals.

Week 3 – Inequalities & Logic Coding with if/else linked to <, >; graphing inequalities on number lines Students translate sensor thresholds into conditional logic.

Week 4 – Angles & Motion Fraction-to-degree conversion; 0°, 90°, 180° rotations Students compute and program servo angles to model circle fractions.

Week 5 – Ratios & Proportions Sensor input : motor output ratios; solving for missing values Students adjust motor speed or LED brightness proportionally.

Week 6 – Data & Graphing Data tables, mean, median, range Students collect, graph, and analyze sensor or motor data. 

(Same as Intro to Arduino Uno R3 — no extra materials required.)

• Computer (Windows or Mac) with USB port + Arduino IDE software (free download).
   
• Recommended Kit: Arduino Official Starter Kit (K000007) (~$90). Includes Arduino Uno R3, breadboard, wires, LEDs, resistors, sensors, and motors.
   
• Internet connection for video lessons and feedback submissions.

MTC instructors are certified educators and industry professionals with experience in mathematics, electronics, and STEM education. They help students bridge numerical concepts with real-world applications, fostering confidence and creativity through data-driven problem solving.

This self-paced course runs alongside the Intro to Arduino Uno R3 program. Students work independently through math and coding challenges with video support and teacher feedback. Parents may assist with kit setup and encourage students to record and analyze their data each week.

This course supports both Mathematics and STEM standards:

Common Core Math

• CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.RP.A.1 – Understand ratio concepts and use ratio reasoning to solve problems.
   
• CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.EE.B.4 – Use variables to represent quantities and construct simple equations and inequalities.
   
• CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.SP.B.4 – Display numerical data in plots and analyze center and spread.
   

NGSS & CSTA Connections

• NGSS MS-ETS1: Engineering Design — define problems, develop, and optimize solutions.
   
• CSTA 2-CS-02: Design and develop programs with loops, conditionals, and variables.