Solving One & Two-Step Equations Activity

Transform your Algebra 1, solving two-step equations lesson into a hands-on, illustrated math experience! This all-in-one lesson illustrates how to model algebraic expressions and includes multiple opportunities to upgrade interactive notebooks. By the end of this 8th-grade math lesson and project, your students will fully understand how to solve one and two-step equations.

Comics have the power to present information visually and engage even the most reluctant reader.

The penny puzzles will help students grasp the concept of variables and why we use inverses to solve one and two-step equations. Multiple worksheets are provided to reinforce understanding and challenge learners to apply their skills.

Back-Story

I used these puzzles with my at-risk 8th-grade Algebra 1 math class and my students TRULY UNDERSTOOD how to solve multi-step equations. Even my learners who believed they were horrible at math were able to grasp these puzzles. This approach to teaching one and two-step equations works better than any worksheets I tried in the past.

This comic-style lesson will help your learners understand algebraic reasoning and leave them with a deep understanding of why we solve equations the way we do.

By the end of this lesson, your students will never forget how to solve algebraic expressions!

Overview

Penny Puzzles are a great way to introduce the concepts of variables and solve two-step equations. Build on your Algebra 1 Lesson with guided notes and hands-on fun helping learners solve one-, two-, and multi-step equations.

Use logic and algebraic reasoning to determine the number of pennies hidden in paper bags. Next, students use variables and expressions to model the puzzle. Through cancellation and equation balancing, students learn to solve two-step equations.

Give students a real-world example of algebraic reasoning and allow them the opportunity to take an active role in the learning process.

What’s Inside this Algebra 1 – Two-Step Equation Lesson?

Editable Google Slideshow

Detailed Lesson Plan

Solving Penny Puzzles

Visual “How-to”
Introduces Penny Puzzles in an illustrated manner
Presents information in a medium that is approachable and engaging
Even your most reluctant learners will get roped in!
Comes with Doodle note-style guided notes!
Both color and black-and-white

Equation Time

Turn models into equations
Solve one and two-step equations using inverses
Students will grasp why we use inverses to solve equations
Comes with Doodle note-style guided notes!
Both color and black-and-white

Practice!

Students will start solving penny puzzles on their own
They will be expected to translate each puzzle into an equation using variables.
They will also be expected to solve the equations using inverses
Both color and black-and-white

Reverse Practice

Now, students will be challenged to change algebraic expressions into penny puzzles
They will need to draw models to represent the two-step equations they are given
They will also be expected to solve the two-step equations using inverses
Both color and black-and-white

Create Your Own Two-Step Equations

Low-prep, hands-on activity
Students break into teams and create their own penny puzzles using paper bags and pennies
Each team will set up a penny puzzle for their classmates to try
Instructions are presented in a written and visual format making them accessible to all
Learners use logic and problem-solving skills to participate in this activity
Both color and black-and-white

Penny Puzzle Challenge

Challenge learners to solve multi-step algebraic equations
Each equation has the variable on both sides
Will they be able to apply what they have learned about inverses and models to accomplish this challenge?
Both color and black-and-white