Grade 8 Algebra Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

Grade 8 Algebra Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this algebra vocabulary puzzle set for my 8th graders during our math unit. The kids could solve equations but had no idea what words like variable, coefficient, or linear meant when we started using more formal algebra vocabulary. They also kept mixing up "function" and "relation." So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like variable, coefficient, constant, expression, equation, inequality, term, like terms, simplify, evaluate, solve, isolate, inverse, linear, function, slope, intercept, domain, and range . I also included a few like "vertex" and "parabola" because they kept coming up in our class discussions . Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the vocabulary finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess or independent practice. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about the spelling of "coefficient" (it's a tricky one) or whether slope and intercept are the same thing (they're not—they always have opinions about it) . The crossword I use for partners or as a review, and I usually have examples of each term written on the board or an anchor chart nearby for the kids who need the visual support to see the differences . I added a couple simple x and y axis, slope, and function drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 8th through 9th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers write an equation and label the slope and intercept on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.