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Equations and Balance Basics

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Equations and Balance Basics

Read each equation carefully. Write your answers in the spaces provided. An equation is balanced when both sides have the same value.

Parts of an equation

1.In the equation a + 6 = 11, which symbol is the variable?

2.In the equation 9 − b = 4, which symbol is the variable?

3.Match each equation word to its meaning.

Variable
Constant
Operator

A number that stays fixed
A sign that tells us which calculation to do
A number or symbol for a value we do not know yet

4.Find the missing number: 4 + □ = 10.

5.Find the missing number: □ − 3 = 5.

6.Find the missing number: 7 + □ = 12.

7.Find the missing number: 10 − □ = 6.

Check and show balance

8.If two sides have the same number of blocks, what does this tell you about the amounts on the two sides?

9.Which equations are balanced? Select every correct answer.

5 + 3 = 8
4 + 6 = 11
9 − 2 = 7
8 + 1 = 10

Use dots, blocks or a quick drawing to show how you can solve x + 2 = 6. Then write the value of x.

10.Write a balanced equation that uses 3, 4 and 7. Use each number at least once.

11.In your own words, explain what it means for an equation to be balanced.

Try a challenge

12.Solve the equation x + 5 = 3 + 6. Show how you worked it out.

13.Hamish has 3 shells and finds some more. She then has 9 shells altogether. Write an equation using n for the number of shells she finds, and solve it.