Math Problem Statement

Which graph could show Kaylee's distance from the office over time?

Solution

The problem asks which graph shows Kaylee's distance from her office over time, based on her morning commute that includes walking to a bus stop, taking the bus for several stops, and then walking the rest of the way to her office.

Let's analyze the graphs:

  • Key Features to Consider:
    1. Initial walking: The distance from the office decreases gradually as Kaylee walks to the bus stop.
    2. Bus ride: After the walking, there should be a relatively steep decrease in distance (since the bus covers more distance quickly).
    3. Final walking: There will be another gradual decrease in distance as she walks the remaining distance to the office.

Evaluating the Graphs:

  1. Top left graph: The distance decreases initially, then flattens for a while (indicating no change), and finally rises back up. This suggests Kaylee walks away from the office, then pauses, and returns, which doesn't match the description.

  2. Top right graph: This shows an increasing distance from the office, which isn't logical for the scenario, since Kaylee is getting closer to the office over time.

  3. Bottom left graph: The distance consistently decreases in steps, which could represent a combination of walking and riding a bus. However, the overall downward trend suggests continuous progress toward the office.

  4. Bottom right graph: This one shows a steady decrease, a flat segment (possibly representing the bus ride), and then a continued decrease, matching the expected pattern: walking, riding the bus, and walking again.

Conclusion:

The bottom right graph best represents Kaylee's distance from the office over time.

Would you like further clarification on the reasoning? Here are some related questions to consider:

  1. How would the graph change if Kaylee walked the entire way instead of taking the bus?
  2. How would the graph look if Kaylee waited for the bus for some time before it arrived?
  3. Can we interpret the steepness of the slopes to understand the speed of different segments (walking vs. bus)?
  4. What would the graph look like for the return trip home?
  5. How could the graph change if there were traffic, causing delays on the bus?

Tip: Pay attention to the steepness of lines in distance-time graphs, as they indicate the speed at which distance is being covered!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Graph Interpretation
Distance-Time Relationship
Linear Segments

Formulas

Distance = Speed × Time (conceptual understanding)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8