Finding Intercepts Directly from Linear Equations

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This math tutorial provides a clear, step-by-step guide on how to calculate x-intercepts and y-intercepts directly from linear equations without needing to graph them first. Building on previous knowledge of what intercepts look like visually, the narrator, Justin, transitions students to algebraic methods using substitution. The video uses a split-screen format to simultaneously demonstrate the process for finding both intercepts for various equations. The content covers four distinct examples that increase in complexity: a standard standard-form equation, an equation with negative coefficients, an equation with terms on different sides of the equals sign, and a special case where the line passes through the origin (0,0). The core concept emphasized throughout is the rule that x-intercepts always have a y-coordinate of 0, and y-intercepts always have an x-coordinate of 0. This video is highly valuable for Algebra 1 classrooms as it reinforces the connection between algebraic manipulation and graphical features. It efficiently addresses common student sticking points, such as handling negative signs during division and recognizing when a line crosses the origin. Teachers can use this as a direct instructional tool or a review segment before teaching the "cover-up method" for graphing lines in standard form.