Math Problem Statement

Suppose that you are taking a course that has 4 tests. The first three tests are for 100 points each and the fourth test is for 200 points. To get an B in the course, you must have an average of at least 80 percent on the 4 tests. Your scores on the first 3 tests were 77, 73, and 82. What is the minimum score you need on the fourth test to get an B for the course?.

Solution

To determine the minimum score you need on the fourth test to get a B in the course, we need to calculate what total score will give you an average of at least 80%.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Total Possible Points:

    • The first three tests are 100 points each, so: 3×100=300 points3 \times 100 = 300 \text{ points}
    • The fourth test is 200 points.
    • Total points for all four tests: 300+200=500 points300 + 200 = 500 \text{ points}
  2. Required Total Points for a B:

    • To achieve an 80% average, you need: 80% of 500=0.8×500=400 points80\% \text{ of } 500 = 0.8 \times 500 = 400 \text{ points}
    • You must score at least 400 points in total from all four tests.
  3. Points Scored on First Three Tests:

    • Your scores on the first three tests were 77, 73, and 82. So, your total score so far is: 77+73+82=232 points77 + 73 + 82 = 232 \text{ points}
  4. Points Needed on the Fourth Test:

    • To get at least 400 points in total, the minimum score you need on the fourth test is: 400232=168 points400 - 232 = 168 \text{ points}

Thus, you need to score at least 168 points on the fourth test (which is out of 200) to get a B in the course.

Would you like further details or clarification on any part of the solution?

Here are 5 related questions to explore:

  1. How would the required score change if the fourth test was worth 150 points instead of 200?
  2. What would your average be if you scored exactly 168 on the fourth test?
  3. What if your goal was an A (90%)—how much would you need to score on the fourth test?
  4. How does changing the weight of the fourth test impact the overall average?
  5. What if your scores were 70, 80, and 90 on the first three tests—how would this change the required score on the fourth test?

Tip: Always check the weight of each exam when calculating averages for courses with different test values.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Averages
Weighted Scores
Basic Arithmetic

Formulas

Weighted Average Formula: Total Points Required = 0.8 * Total Maximum Points
Points Needed on Last Test = Total Points Required - Points Earned So Far

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10