Teacher Resource Page
Math A

Visual Equations

 

Here's an idea to try with students who have trouble with abstract concepts, and who might benefit from a more visual approach.

 

1. Solve for x:    x + 3 = 7

   

To solve take the same thing away from both sides    

    So the solution is  x = 4

 

 

2. Solve for x:  2x - 3 = x + 2

To solve, first take x from both sides

Then, to remove a red tile on one side, tell the students they have to add a blue tile on the other side.

So the solution is  x = 5

 

 

3. Solve for x:  4(x + 2) = 2x + 10



 

To solve, first take 2 x's from both sides.

 




 

Now take eight  1's from both sides.

 

 

Now arrange what's left into equal groups on both sides.

 

 

Therefore, each x = 1.

 

 

4. Solve for x:   x + 3 = 11 - 3x

 



 

To solve, first take three  1's from both sides.

 



 

Now, to remove a red tile from the right, add a blue tile to the left.

 


 

Now arrange what's left into equal groups on both sides.

 

 

Therefore, each x = 2.

 

 


   Murray