Straightening Out 'The Bends'

Analyze the relationship between how deep a diver goes and how long he or she can stay at that depth before being in danger of "the bends."

Subject: Algebra
Topics:
- Patterns, Functions and Relations
- Linear Equations and Functions
Grades: 6 - 12
Concepts:
- Function
- Independent and dependent variable
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can plot a point in a two-dimensional coordinate system, given the coordinates, or determine the coordinates of a given point
- Can determine the equation of a linear function that closely matches a set of points

Download Teacher Guide: Straightening Out 'The Bends' (PDF)
Download Student Activity: Straightening Out 'The Bends' (PDF)

Algebra in the Real World Movie:

Coral ReefsCoral Reefs

These underwater gardens are an important part of our ecosystem. Biologist Joanie Kleypus explains how climate change is affecting our oceans’ coral reefs and why it’s important to preserve them.
Running time 2:26 minutes.

Watch the Movie