Math Chick

Hands-On, Discovery Learning & Tech integration for Math, Science and STEM

Equivalent Equations and Properties of Equations

So my second week in 6th grade was a tough one! TEKS 6.7C and 6.7D are no joke! It may have been that I was so used to 5th grade standards that this one through me for a loop or it was just a hard concept. Either way, I had to develop a way to teach the concept to the kids and quite frankly, myself! So I developed an entire learning cycle to help us both!

We first explored equivalent equations using this sorting activity! It is free! And you can get your own copy here>>> Equivalent Equations Sort It also contains QR Codes!!!

Now to take those Math Properties!
First I used the 5 E model. For Engage and Explore- I always like to allow students to make sense of a concept by themselves and use me as a resource or facilitator. I developed posters to hang around the room. Students rotated around the room and tried to make sense of the math that was being presented in each poster. I gave students post-it notes and each set of partners wrote what they observed from these posters.

The students did really well, with their observations and were excited to learn the WHY? behind each property. 
Explain- I created a foldable that includes places for definitions, how to remember the term and an example. I made a pre-filled out version for myself so that I kept to the script, haha. The students related the foldable back to the posters they had visited earlier. Some students had A-Ha moments while others still needed some more direct instruction. 


Elaborate- Students looked at 24 equations and sorting them based on a property. Distributive, Commutative, Associative, Inverse, Identity and Non-Examples. I used Non-Examples so that students really look at each equation to make sure both sides are equal. You know me and I always include technology! So I made these cards with QR codes so that students receive immediate feedback.  

Evaluate- I created a google form with 10 questions. I used this as a quick check to form my small group instruction.  


Enrich- I developed an enrichment question so the students have the chance to analyze the math and then justify their response. Students completed this the next day for me and I was pleasantly surprised that they did really well with this topic! (and so did I ) 

Afterwards I realized that a through and developed lesson plan, will always help teach a harder topic! 

If you want to get your hands on all of the activities listed here, they can all be found in one download! Click Here >>>> Entire Learning Cycle on Math Operations 

Until next time!
Peace, Love, Math


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