Tips for Teaching Variables and Equations

Posted by David Wetzel

$Math Variables and Equations$

Math Variables and Equations

Here is one method for reinforcing middle school math terms such as variables and equations. The key is to make it visual. Start with the basics, use colors, and take it one step at a time.

Reinforcing Variables and Equations

Materials:

unlined white paper
black marker
red marker

1. Begin with a simple, one-step equation. Use a black marker to write “n + 2 = 5”.

Student must solve for “n”

Discussion:

What is the opposite of +2?” (-2)
What you do to one side of the equation, you must do to the other side

Show:

n + 2 – 2 = 5 – 2 (write “- 2 “on both sides in red)
n = 3

2. Next, practice a one-step subtraction equation

Show:

n – 3 = 6 (using black marker)
n – 3 + 3 = 6 + 3 (write “+3” on both sides in red)
n = 9

3. Next, move on to two-step equations

Show:

5y – 10 = 5 9 (using black marker)

Discussion:

You must get “y” by itself
What is the opposite of - 10? (+10)
What you do to one side of the equation, you must do to the other side

Show:

5y – 10 + 10 = 5 + 10 (write “+10” to both sides in red)
5y = 15

Discussion:

5y means “5 times y”
What is the opposite of “times”? (divide)
To get y by itself, divide both sides by 5.

Show:

5y = 15 (write “/ 5” on both sides in red)
5y / 5 = 15 / 5
y = 3

Additional Tips

By using colors, students can easily see and review the steps required to solve one and two-step equations.Keep practicing until the process of solving simple equations becomes automatic.

Equations quickly become more complex, requiring several steps. Be sure your middle-schooler has a concrete understanding of the basics so s/he is able to move ahead with confidence.

Resources

12 Tips for Solving Word Problems

Illuminations - An Interactive Math Website for Learning Math