Student Goal

I can use variables to write and solve simple math problems.

Why It Matters

Expressions and equations help students represent unknowns, patterns, and real-world situations in 7th grade math.

Warm-Up

Warm-Up 1

Evaluate x + 4 when x = 9.

Warm-Up 2

Which has an equals sign?

Warm-Up 3

Solve m + 6 = 10.

Short Lesson

Standard Focus

NC.7.EE: Expressions and Equations

Student-Friendly Standard Goal

I can write, evaluate, solve, and check simple expressions and equations.

  • An expression is a math phrase, such as x + 5. It does not have an equals sign.
  • An equation says two expressions are equal, such as x + 5 = 12.
  • To solve an equation, find the value that makes the equation true. Then substitute it back to check.

Guided Examples

Guided Example 1

Solve and Check

Solve x + 9 = 22.

Step 1

x + 9 = 22

What operation will undo plus 9?

Guided Example 2

Write an Expression

A movie ticket costs 8 dollars. Write an expression for the cost of t tickets.

Step 1

t tickets

What does the variable represent?

Practice

Problem 1

Evaluate 2x + 1 when x = 5.

Problem 2

Which is an expression?

Problem 3

Solve y - 4 = 9.

Problem 4

True or false: a = 6 is a solution to a + 3 = 9.

Problem 5

A notebook costs d dollars. Which expression shows the cost of 4 notebooks?

Reflection

How are you feeling about today's skill?

Optional reflection: Why is checking a solution helpful?