Solve Two-Step Equations- Penny Puzzles Activity

Did you know you can teach your students how to solve two-step equations using a low-prep, hands-on activity?

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 solving two-step equations. This 5-Part Lesson builds on the concept guiding learners toward solving multi-step equations. Your students will have a solid foundational understanding and the confidence to conquer equations that were once intimidating.

Students use logic and algebraic reasoning to determine the number of pennies hidden in paper bags. Then, students use variables and expressions to model the puzzle. Through cancellation and equation balancing, students learn to solve two-step equations. This activity gives students a real-world example of algebraic reasoning and allows them the opportunity to take an active role in the learning process.

What’s Inside the Two-Step Equation Lesson?

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!
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
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

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 students 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

*Answer keys are included at the end!

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Common Core Standards

CCSS.Math.Content.6.EE.B.6

Use variables to represent numbers and write expressions when solving a real-world or mathematical problem; understand that a variable can represent an unknown number, or, depending on the purpose at hand, any number in a specified set.

CCSS.Math.Content.7.EE.B.4

Use variables to represent quantities in a real-world or mathematical problem, and construct simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.