The question involves representing a linear relationship using a verbal description, equation, table, and graph. Let’s break it down step by step based on the information provided:

Verbal Description

A puppy weighs 2 pounds at birth and gains half a pound each week.

1. Equation

The weight ($y$) depends on the weeks ($x$), following the linear relationship: $y = 2 + 0.5x$ Here:

• 2 represents the starting weight at birth.
• $0.5x$ represents the half-pound gained per week.

2. Table

Using the equation $y = 2 + 0.5x$, we calculate weights for $x = 0, 1, 2, 3$:

3. Graph

To plot the graph:

• $x$-axis represents weeks ($x$).
• $y$-axis represents weight ($y$).
• Plot points: $(0, 2), (1, 2.5), (2, 3), (3, 3.5)$.
• Connect the points with a straight line to represent the linear relationship.

Would you like me to create a visualization of the graph for you? Let me know!

Questions for Further Exploration:

1. What does the slope of 0.5 represent in real-life terms?
2. If the puppy continues gaining weight at the same rate, what will its weight be at 10 weeks?
3. How would the equation change if the puppy started at 3 pounds instead of 2 pounds?
4. Can you identify the intercept in this linear model, and what does it signify?
5. How would the graph look if the rate of weight gain doubled to 1 pound per week?

Tip:

When writing equations for linear relationships, always identify the initial value (intercept) and the rate of change (slope). This helps connect the equation to real-world meanings.