Solving linear equations of the form ax+b=c

A complete lesson on solving two step equations of the form ax+b=c using the balancing method. Designed to come after pupils have solved using a flowchart/inverse operations.

Activities included:

Starter:
A set of questions to check that pupils can solve one step equations using the balancing method.

Main:

• A prompt for pupils to consider a two step equation.
• An animated solution to this equation, showing physical scales to help reinforce the balancing idea.
• An example-problem pair, to model the method and allow pupils to try.
• A set of questions with a variation element built in. Pupils could be extended by asking them to predict answers, or to explain the connections between answers after finishing them.
• A related, more challenging task of solving equations by comparing them to a given equation, plus a suggested extension task for pupils to think more mathematically and creatively.

Plenary:
A closer look at a question, looking at the two different balancing approaches that could be taken (see cover slide). Depending on time, pupils could go back and attempt the previous questions using the second approach.

Printable worksheets and answers included.

Please review if you buy as any feedback is appreciated!