One-Step Equations

Do the same thing to both sides: the balance stays level and x stands alone

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About This Practice

An equation is a balanced scale: left equals right. To find x, the trick is to do the same thing to both sides — take away the same weights, add the same, group or bundle the same — so the balance always stays level, until x stands alone on one pan and the answer shows itself. Practice all four one-step types on this balance.

A balance holds x-boxes and weights on the left, weights on the right. Pick x, then watch the demo: remove the same weights from both pans until x stands alone.

MediumEstimated Time: 15minone-step equationsbalance modelproperties of equalitysolving equations

How to Play

  1. Read the balance: x-boxes (and weights) on the left, weights on the right — that is the equation.
  2. Pick the value of x from three choices.
  3. When correct, watch the demo: the same weights come off (or go on) both pans together.
  4. See that when x stands alone, the other pan's count is the answer.
  5. Switch among the four types (x+a, x−a, a×x, x÷a) and practice each.

Learning Objectives

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