Explain how to balance equations with addition or subtraction expressions

I can explain how to balance equations with addition or subtraction expressions in different contexts.

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Year 6

Explain how to balance equations with addition or subtraction expressions

I can explain how to balance equations with addition or subtraction expressions in different contexts.

Download all resources

Share activities with pupils

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Lesson details

Key learning points

If one addend is increased and the other is decreased by the same amount, the sum stays the same.
If the minuend and subtrahend are changed by the same amount, the difference stays the same.

Keywords

Peimeter - The perimeter is the distance around a 2D shape.
Expression - An expression contains one or more values, where each value is separated by an operator.
Area - Area is the measurement of a flat surface. It measures 2D space.

Common misconception

Pupils are inefficient when calculating the perimeter of a rectangle or do not recognise why more efficient strategies (summing length and width and doubling) works.

Encourage pupils to see the efficient calculation and connection with smaller integers to support the generalisation before progressing to values in the lesson. Consider adapting values for some learners where required.

In this lesson, equations with more than one operation are completed left to right, following the context. Brackets have not been used to show priority as pupils have not formally encountered this. Consider the learning journey of your own pupils and adapt if required.