Writing & Solving Multi Step Equations - Balancing Equations Task Cards

Do your students struggle with understanding multi step equations? These Balance the Equation task cards help students see the mathematical operations through models. Each balance models both multiplication and addition while also including another expression to solve. Students solve the independent expression to identify the unknown value.

Students build their algebraic thinking with equivalence by working through balance the equation activities. By integrating algebraic concepts in elementary classrooms, students develop math reasoning and computation skills while applying number sense, logic, and algebraic thinking. Students will think they're solving puzzles when they're actually building strong algebraic thinking!

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• 28 task cards
• Recording sheet
• answer key

Balancing Equations helps students understand the concept of equality – working to balance both sides of the equation. With these task cards, students should start by writing the expressions represented on the balance then solving. These are also great for working with the concept of a variable. The included shape represents the unknown number and can easily be connected with the variable. These task cards help students work with equivalent expressions to identify the unknown number. These task cards provide great discourse around how students came to their solution and how they thought of the problem.

I intentionally left these task cards and the recording sheet somewhat open ended. This allows you to tailor your directions to match your students’ readiness levels. You can have students just identify the missing number write an equation, and/or use a variable.

If you have not worked with balances previously, students will likely need some instruction for beginning. Once it’s introduced, these are a great extension for fast finishers, and even high ability students depending on the grade level.

These task cards are great for:

• whole class instruction
• small group instruction- both guided or independent
• fast finisher extensions
• high ability extensions

These task cards are part of my Accessing Algebra line. Accessing Algebra is designed to focus on applying algebraic thinking with our existing standards, giving students the tools they'll need for success later. By looking at the standards in a new way, students build a deeper understanding of the standard while also building their critical and algebraic thinking.

Other Balancing Equations Activities:

★ Multiplication Facts Balancing Equations - Missing Factor Task Cards

★ Writing & Solving Two Step Equations - Balancing Equations Task Cards

Other Accessing Algebra Activities

☆ Applying Two Step Rules in Function Tables - Input Output Tables Task Cards

☆ Mixed Operations Input-Output Tables Task Cards - Applying Rules

☆ Mixed Operations Input-Output Tables Task Cards - Rules in Function Tables

☆ Two Step Rules in Function Tables - Input Output Tables Task Cards

☆ Writing & Solving Two Step Equations to Models Task Cards

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Copyright © Tessa Maguire.

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