Math equations

[Glenn E. Fisher]

Mark,
You wrote:
> I am making a stack to teach students math -- linear equations, to be
> more precise.  When I display the y = mx + b form, the best I can do
> to show a fraction in the m position is something like y = 4/5x + 2.
> This is ambiguous because it isn't clear what should be taken as the
> divisor, 5 or 5x or 5x + 2.  The math teacher for whom I am making
> the game would prefer a horizontal division line instead of a slash.
>
> So far this is what I've thought of and rejected:
>
> Use fonts that have fractions built in as one character.  No, because
> they have too few for the range of possible slopes I want to generate.
>
> Force the numerals around as subscripts and superscripts until it is
> clear what the fraction is.  Messy and probably won't lead to success.
>
> Use inline images.  Need too many images to cover possible slopes.
>
> Write it y = (4/5)x + 2.  This is mathematically acceptable, but not
> the way the students will see it elsewhere.
>
> Use a different 2-line field that moves according to the location of
> the fraction.  Hmm.. maybe.
>
> I could use some help on this one.
>
> 	TIA,
> 		Mark
>
I have done this in the past (HyperCard days) with more complex  
equations than just linear which would simplify the scripting  
necessary.  The secret is doing the spacing of the numerator and  
denominator above and below a horizontal line of the equation in the  
center.  If you need some help scripting it just send me email off  
list and I'll help.

Have fun,
Glenn