solving equations using the balancing method
DESCRIPTION
Are you teaching or learning GCSE Maths? Then this is for you! The presentation goes through the steps for solving equations with the unknown on both sides, using the balancing method. To support understanding of the concept, you could use paper x's, paper 1's and paper scales to represent the equations.TRANSCRIPT
Learning Objectives:To solve equations with the unknown
on both sides of an equation
Learning Outcome:You can use the ‘balancing method’ to solve equations
Solving Equations
Use your ‘scales’ to show this equation…2x + 4 = x + 6
Solving the equation … What’s the value of x ?
Remember to do the same to both sides of the equation …Remove ‘4’ from each side2x = x + 2Divide each side by ‘2’x = 2
Remember!
Always do the same to each side of the equation!
Keep your scales balanced!
E.g. 2x + 4 = x + 10 (- 4) 2x = x + 6 (- 4) (÷2) x = 6 (÷2)
Remember! In an equation, each letter stands for a missing number. To solve an equation, find the values of the missing numbers.
Remember! Adding and subtracting are the inverse (opposite) of each other.Multiplying and dividing are the inverse of each other.
1. Use your scales to represent an equation2. Solve the equation (to find the value of x)3. Write your method down
2x + 4 = x + 6
3x + 1 = 2x + 4
4x + 2 = 2x + 4
2x + 5 = x + 9
5x + 3 = 3x + 7
3x + 4 = 2x + 10
Remember!
Always do the same to each side of the equation!
Keep your scales balanced!
Online Interactive Activities
Balancing Method Activity: Available at http://www.mathsisfun.com/algebra/add-subtract-balance.html
Algebra Equations with a Balance Scale: Available at http://www.mathplayground.com/AlgebraEquations.html
Go to the website, click ‘create problem’ and type in the equation. Use the scales to represent the equation and solve!