Meadows or Malls?
Using Matricies to Solve Systems
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Objective
Students explore the use of matrices and graphing calculators to solve a complex
linear programming problem.
Overview of the Lesson
Students use matrices and technology to solve the Meadows or Malls? problem, a
linear programming problem with six variables. The students begin by reviewing
homework problems in which they relate the solvability of a system of linear
equations to the invertibility of the coefficient matrix. The students use graphing
calculators to solve linear systems. The final activity of the lesson involves
reviewing all of the equations and constraints of the Meadows or Malls? problem,
refining those considerations, using the graphing calculator to solve the linear
systems involving six equations and six variables, and then testing those solutions
in the cost equation to determine the best division of land use for the city.
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