For this case, the first thing we must do is define variables. m: number of times you cut the grass d: amount of dollars you earn. We now write the linear equation that models the problem: d = 12m The slope of the line is 12, which means that each time you cut the grass, you earn 12 dollars. Answer: an equation for the number of dollars, d, you earn when you mow the lawn m times is: d = 12m