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Lesson 1-2: Unit Rates

Scenario: Supermarket Comparison - Find the best deals by comparing unit rates!

Duration: 50-65 minutesScenario: Supermarket Comparison

Learning Objectives

  • Calculate unit rates using the formula: Unit Rate = Total ÷ Quantity
  • Compare unit rates to make smart shopping decisions
  • Solve rate problems involving speed, distance, and time
  • Apply unit rates to real-world efficiency problems

What is a Unit Rate?

Shopping Scenario

You're at the supermarket comparing pens. Brand A costs $12.50 for 5 pens, and Brand B costs $7.50 for 3 pens. Which is the better deal?

Unit Rate Formula: Unit Rate = Total Cost ÷ Number of Items

Calculating Unit Rates

Brand A

$12.50 ÷ 5 pens = $2.50 per pen

Unit Rate: $2.50/pen

Brand B

$7.50 ÷ 3 pens = $2.50 per pen

Unit Rate: $2.50/pen

Conclusion: Both brands have the same unit rate! The price per pen is identical.

Speed and Rate Problems

Example 1: Car Speed

A car travels 240 miles in 3 hours. What is the car's speed?

Solution: Speed = Distance ÷ Time = 240 miles ÷ 3 hours = 80 miles/hour

Example 2: Typing Speed

A typist types 300 words in 5 minutes. What is the typing rate?

Solution: Rate = Words ÷ Time = 300 words ÷ 5 minutes = 60 words/minute

Practice Problems

Problem 1

6 apples cost $1.80. What is the unit rate per apple?

Your calculation:

Problem 2

Compare: 6 apples for $1.80 vs 10 apples for $2.90. Which is the better deal?

Your comparison:

6 apples:per apple
10 apples:per apple
Better deal: