What the standard asks
Grade 7 algebraic reasoning asks the student to represent linear relationships using verbal descriptions, tables, graphs, and equations that simplify to the form y = mx + b. The four representations should describe the same relationship.
A two-minute check at home
Give them this table: x is 0, 1, 2 and y is 3, 5, 7. Ask for the equation. They should reach y = 2x + 3, and they should be able to point to the 2 as the rate and the 3 as the start. If they can fill the next row but cannot write the equation, they have the pattern and not the form.
What it leads to next year
Grade 8 and Algebra I spend months on slope, intercept, and systems. 7.7 is the first time the slope-intercept form is the expected product, not a later rewrite.
This explainer does not claim that $100 for 100% lessons cover 7.7. It explains the Texas standard so you can check it yourself.