How to Calculate the Slope of a Line from Points and Equations

The Organic Chemistry Tutor

This comprehensive math tutorial provides a deep dive into calculating the slope of a line using the slope formula given two points on a coordinate plane. The video begins with standard integer examples and progressively increases in difficulty to include negative numbers, zero slopes (horizontal lines), and undefined slopes (vertical lines). It places a strong emphasis on handling fractions and complex fractions within the slope formula, demonstrating a specific technique to clear denominators for easier calculation. The content covers key algebraic themes including the coordinate geometry of lines, operations with rational numbers (fractions), solving linear equations, and understanding different forms of linear equations. It addresses specific scenarios like finding a missing coordinate (x or y) when given the slope and the other point, requiring students to solve for a variable using cross-multiplication. Ideally suited for Algebra 1 students, this video is an excellent classroom resource for introducing or reviewing slope. It offers clear, step-by-step procedural knowledge that teachers can use to scaffold learning—starting from basic substitution and moving toward complex algebraic manipulation. The visual explanations of horizontal vs. vertical lines provide necessary conceptual grounding, while the rigorous work with fractions supports students who struggle with arithmetic operations in algebraic contexts.