LESSON - This presentation will help students see the balanced scale as a model for solving algebraic equations. Can be used as an interactive lesson with whiteboards or math journals as you ask students to demonstrate how they kept the scale balanced as they found their answer. Built-in animations reveal answers for each example as you go. Record the lesson for asynchronous learning and purchase the coordinating handout for independent practice problems.

File format & use suggestions:

• PowerPoint presentation file provided (standard 4:3 slide size)
• Animated answers revealed
• Adjust language to meet the needs of your students
• Adjust complexity of examples to meet the needs of your students
• Give students whiteboards or blank scale diagrams to write down math thinking
• Use the graphics library to create additional examples or challenge problems
• Use mindset check-in to reveal student comprehension and confidence

HANDOUT - LGive students practice solving two-step equations using a balanced scale in-class, as homework, or as an exit ticket after the lesson presentation. Students write an equation for a balanced scale with coins and bags (with coins we can't see inside) then solve the equation by keeping the scale balanced using inverse operations. 4 practice problems provided and 4 blank scales for creating custom equations to solve.

File format & print suggestions:

• PDF file provided
• Formatted for 8.5x11 paper, portrait
• Print grayscale or color
• Answer key provided