Warm-Up 1
Day 4: Multi-Step Equations
Preview multi-step equations, solution checking, and simple inequality meanings.
Student Goal
I can solve multi-step equations and understand what an inequality means.
Why It Matters
Multi-step equation habits prepare students for 8th grade algebra, functions, and later Math 1 work.
Warm-Up
Warm-Up 2
Which symbol means greater than?
Warm-Up 3
What is the first step for 2x + 3 = 13?
Short Lesson
Standard Focus
NC.8.EE: Expressions and Equations
Student-Friendly Standard Goal
I can use inverse operations and checking to reason about equations and inequalities.
- A multi-step equation takes more than one move to solve.
- Work in an organized order: simplify if needed, undo addition or subtraction, then undo multiplication or division.
- An inequality compares values. Symbols such as >, <, and >= show more than, less than, or at least.
Guided Examples
Guided Example 1
Solve a Multi-Step Equation
Solve 3x + 4 = 22.
Step 1
3x + 4 = 22
What should we do first?
Guided Example 2
Interpret an Inequality
A student needs at least 18 points to earn a badge. Which inequality represents the points p?
Step 1
at least 18
What does at least mean?
Practice
Problem 1
Solve 2x + 5 = 17.
Problem 2
Solve 4x - 3 = 21.
Problem 3
Which inequality means fewer than 12 books?
Problem 4
True or false: x = 5 is a solution to 3x + 2 = 17.
Problem 5
A student solves 2x + 8 = 20 by dividing by 2 first. What is a better first step?
Reflection
How are you feeling about today's skill?
Optional reflection: What is different about an equation and an inequality?