If you’re getting ready to introduce multiplication and division one-step equations to your students, you’re teaching one of the most important building blocks in algebra. Today, I’ll walk you through how to explain both types of equations clearly and effectively. This will help your students solve them with confidence and accuracy.
Watch How to Teach Multiplication and Division One-Step Equations
Let’s start by watching two videos. Each one walks through how to solve multiplication and division one-step equations using inverse operations. I also highlight vocabulary terms, model how to check answers and share tips for helping your students write out their steps.
Solving Multiplication Equations
Teaching One-Step Division Equations
Start With Multiplication One-Step Equations
When solving multiplication and division one-step equations, begin by helping your students understand that a number placed next to a variable (like 8x) means multiplication. The key step is to use the inverse operation and divide both sides of the equation by that number.
For example, with 8x = 32, dividing both sides by 8 gives x = 4. It’s also a great chance to explain that 8 ÷ 8 becomes 1, and 1 times any variable is still that variable. Your students can see how multiplication is reversed and simplified.
Be sure to check every solution. Substituting four back into the original equation confirms that 8 × 4 equals 32. These checks make the process stick and show your students why their steps matter.
Help Students Master the Division One-Step Equations
Division equations often look more intimidating because they’re written as fractions, such as x/7 = 13. To solve these, you can teach your students to multiply both sides by the divisor. In this case, 7. That cancels out the 7 and leaves us with x = 91.
Explaining why 7 ÷ 7 equals 1 helps reinforce that the variable is left alone. From there, your students can focus on the multiplication they’re more comfortable with.
I also like showing how to solve these mentally using strategies like breaking apart numbers. For example, with 12 × 13, I model 12 × 10 + 12 × 3 to get 156. It’s a great way to strengthen their number sense while sticking to the lesson.
Why Showing Work Is Essential in Multiplication and Division One-Step Equations
Even when your students can solve x⁄11 = 6 in their heads, I’d still have them write out each step. Why? Writing down their work helps them develop structure, see patterns, and catch mistakes. This is especially important to practice as your students move into multi-step equations later.
Multiplication and division include showing the inverse operation, balancing both sides, and writing the final solution. For example, if they multiply both sides of x⁄11 = 6 by 11 and get x = 66, they should check it by showing that 66 ÷ 11 = 6. Those little quick checks go a long way!
Additional Resource
Want an easy way to reinforce the steps for solving multiplication and division one-step equations? I’ve got just the thing!
My Multiplication & Division Equations lesson is a ready-to-go resource that includes two full lessons, one for each operation, guided notes, student practice, and exit tickets. Your students work through each equation step-by-step. They also learn how to write and check their answers. It’s available in both print and digital formats, which is perfect if you’re in the classroom or assigning virtually.
Build Confidence With Multiplication and Division One-Step Equations
Helping your students master one-step multiplication and division equations is all about setting a strong foundation. With clear modeling, consistent vocabulary, and step-by-step practice, you’ll give your students the confidence they need to tackle more complex algebra ahead.
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