Curated OER
Algebra: Equations
In this algebra equations activity, 7th graders solve and complete 5 different problems that include balance scales. First, they complete each balance challenge by multiplying the given numbers. Then, students determine the number of...
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Solving Equations Using Balance Scale, Decomposition, and Graphing
There's more than one way to solve an equation — three, actually. Scholars learn how to solve simple linear equations in one variable using three different methods, which include using balance scales, using decomposition (e.g., turning...
Virginia Department of Education
Balanced
Bring balance to your lesson plans with an activity that asks individuals to solve one-step linear equations with inverse operations. Balance scales help learners understand the concept of isolating the variable.
Curated OER
Balanced Equations
Help your math class understand variables. This activity is for a visual learner. They will use weights and a balance scale to show how the sides of an equation are equal. Worksheet is included.
Project Maths
Introduction to Equations
Do your pupils truly understand inverse operations, or is their understanding a little backward? Scholars learn the meaning of an equation in the second lesson of a four-part Algebra series. A series of activities begins with an analysis...
Teach Engineering
Hydrogen-Oxygen Reaction Lab
High schoolers conduct an experiment using the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen. After pairs balance the chemical equation for making water, they mix different ratios of hydrogen and oxygen in a chemical reaction. Classmates...
Noyce Foundation
On Balance
Investigate the world of unknown quantities with a creative set of five lessons that provides problem situations for varying grade levels. Each problem presents a scenario of fruit with different weights and a balance scale. Using the...
Curated OER
Solving Equations Using Models
Explore mathematics by analyzing images. As they view pictures on the SMART Board, individuals must write corresponding algebraic equations. They utilize models to visualize the math expressions.
Balanced Assessment
Scale Charts
Develop scales using tables. Pupils complete charts to show equivalent scale factors before using the completed tables to determine the sizes of scale drawings. They finish the lesson and demonstrate their understanding by completing a...
Curated OER
Balanced Systems of Equations
Students solve equations. In this algebra lesson, students relate solving equations to a balanced scale. They add, subtract, multiply and divide on both sides to keep the scale balanced.
Curated OER
Introduction To Solving Equations
Use manipulatives (film cans and balance scales) to visualize and solve equivalent equations with your math class. After a lecture/demo, they utilize handouts and solve various equations using the methods learned.
PHET
Equality Explorer: Basics
Not all interactives are made equal. Scholars use an interactive balance to explore the concept of equality. They place different objects on balances to determine the number of each object needed to balance the scale.
Utah Education Network (UEN)
Solving Single-Variable Equations Part II
Brainiacs explore the concept of solving single-variable equations.They use inverse operations to solve equations, and participate in activities such as balancing an equation scale. This is an awesome lesson plan, complete with game...
Curated OER
Hands-On Equations: Teacher Notes
Math manipulatives are wonderful for demonstrating any number of mathematical concepts in a concrete and visual way. Learners review the addition property of equality and the zero property using a scale model kit (not shown). They...
Virginia Department of Education
Equations
Science equipment can be handy for math class, too. Scholars learn to solve one- and two-step linear equations by using the concept of a balance. They solve real-world problems in a variety of contexts by writing and solving linear...
CCSS Math Activities
Smarter Balanced Sample Items: 7th Grade Math – Claim 2
To solve or not to solve that is the problem. A slide presentation of 17 items show different ways that Smarter Balanced assesses Claim 2, problem solving. The items span from sixth and seventh grade concepts to highlight the...
Waterloo Mathematics
Grade 7 Patterning and Algebra: Algebraic Expressions
Classmates solve 18 different problems that are mostly word problems that apply algebraic expressions. They draw different combinations of masses on a scale that would balance. They also simplify expressions and solve for x in a number...
Curated OER
Walking the Plank
This is a cool math activity. Kids collect and interpret data based on a physical act. A board is balanced between a scale and a step, learners record a peer's weight as it decreases while s/he walks further away from the scale. They...
Curated OER
Balance or Tilt?
Sixth graders investigate the concepts of a variable, constant, expressions, and equations. They solve problems which require the interpretation of expressions in and out of equations looking for solutions. Students also use a balance...
Curated OER
Equations in the Park
Students explore algebraic concepts using real life situations. In this equations lesson, students develop strategies to solve missing number problems. Students participate in a board game based on algebraic equations.
Curated OER
Simplifying Equations of the Form ax+b=cx+d
Pupils solve equations of the form ax+b=cx+d and visualize the concept of "balancing" an equation.
Curated OER
Algebraic Equations
Fifth graders are introduced to a variety of basic equations. As a class, they are shown a balance scale and have them add the same amount of weight to balance it. To end the lesson, they use cups and counters to create their own...
Concord Consortium
Two Pounds to Go
How hard can it be to measure out two pounds? A short performance task introduces a situation where a balance scale is broken. It gives a method for measuring out two pounds and asks learners to evaluate the procedure. They must prove...
Curated OER
Linear Equations 1
In this linear equations worksheet, students study and analyze how to solve simple equations online. Students solve forty-four simple equations and check their answers on line as they go.