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Solving equations, by keeping the balance level
Play Solving Equations
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How to play Solving Equations
- Read the first step: the two sides of an equation are the pans of a balance.
- Move the sliders and switches to change the diagram and watch what happens. The readout under the picture shows the numbers.
- Answer each question. If you are wrong you get a hint and can try again, with no penalty.
- Some steps ask you to make something happen, such as hitting a target value. Experiment until it works.
- Finish the lesson to earn XP and see how many questions you got right first time.
Tips and strategy
- Do not rush. The controls are there to be played with, so try extreme values as well as sensible ones.
- Say what you notice out loud or write it down before you press Continue.
- Use the hint when you are stuck, and then try to explain the answer in your own words.
- Always check your answer by putting it back into the equation.
Keep playing
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FAQ
Solving Equations: questions
What does solving an equation mean?
Finding the value of the unknown that makes both sides equal. In 2x + 3 = 11 the solution is x = 4.
Why do you do the same thing to both sides?
Because an equation is a statement that two things are equal. Doing the same to both sides keeps them equal, like adding the same weight to both pans of a balance.
How do I check my answer?
Put the value back into the original equation. If both sides come out the same, it is right.
What age is this lesson for?
It suits ages 11 to 14, when students first solve equations with the unknown on one side. Younger learners can try the balance steps.
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