Posted: April 25th, 2025

Skills Being Assessed Mathematical Reasoning

Overview

Every day we are in situations where we need to apply math skills to solve problems. Being proficient with arithmetic and algebra can help you make decisions that could help you save money, maximize your time, and live a more productive life. For this assignment, we will assess your ability to use basic arithmetic and algebra to solve real-world quantitative problems.

Instructions

The real-life scenarios below represent the importance of using basic arithmetic and algebra to solve real-world quantitative problems. Choose one of the given scenarios from the list (do not create your own). Answer each prompt in the assignment submission text box below the assignment instructions. Be sure to organize your responses by number.

*Note: After you review the rubric collapse it by using the down arrow beside “View Rubric.” This will allow you to view the instructions and answer the input areas more easily.

Scenarios (choose one):

• Saving money at the grocery store by using unit pricing.

  Toilet paper A is 6 mega rolls for $6.50.
  Toilet paper B is 15 mega rolls for $12.00.

• Choosing a gym membership that fits my budget and lifestyle. (Assume you go to the gym 12 times a month).

  Gym A has a monthly payment of $40.
  Gym B has a cost of $5 per visit.

• Determining the best job to take based on the pay.

  Job A is 40 hours per week and pays $20 per hour (gross pay) with no tips.
  Job B is 30 hours per week and pays $10 per hour (gross pay) plus tips (assume the tips average $250 per week).

• Determining which vehicle to purchase based on monthly payment.

  Vehicle A has a final sale price of $30,000 at 5% interest and offers financing for up to 60 months.
  Vehicle B has a final sale price of $35,000 at 4% interest and offers financing for up to 72 months.

Response prompts (answer all of these in the textbox below using the single scenario you selected from the above choices):

1. What information do you have and what information might you still need to make to solve the problem? (10 points)
2. What steps would you take to solve this problem? What formulas will you use? (if applicable). (10 points)
3. Explain how you would calculate the result. (You can infer and add any additional details you feel you might need to create the calculation). (10 points)
4. Explain your result in the context of your original situation/problem. (For example, based on my calculations, I would choose B over A because…). (10 points)

Note: This assignment does not require research, but if you choose to use information from a source, be sure to cite it. This course requires the use of

Strayer Writing Standards

(SWS). The library is your home for SWS assistance, including citations and formatting. Please refer to the

Library site

for all support. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.

Course Outcome

The specific course outcome associated with this assignment is:

• Use basic arithmetic and algebra to solve real-world quantitative problems.