When your students first encounter one-step equations, it’s not just about solving simple problems. It’s about laying the groundwork for algebraic thinking. These equations teach them how to balance both sides and understand what it means to isolate a variable. If you’re introducing this concept in 6th grade math, this approach will help your students feel successful from the start.
See One-Step Equations in Action
This video is perfect for new 6th grade teachers or anyone who wants a solid example of how to model one-step equations in class. You’ll see how to walk your students through key vocabulary, balancing equations, using inverse operations, and checking their solutions. Watch the video for a clear, step-by-step explanation you can use right away.
What to Emphasize When Solving One-Step Equations
You want to start by helping your students understand what an equation is. It’s a mathematical statement showing that two expressions are equal. From the beginning, introduce the idea of balance. A simple visual, like a scale, helps make the abstract idea of equality more concrete.
Explain that solving one-step equations means finding the value of the variable that makes both sides equal. To do this, your students use inverse operations. If something is added, subtract it. If it’s subtracted, add it. This ‘undoing’ is how they isolate the variable and find the solution.
Even when your students think they know the answer mentally, show them how to write out the step using inverse operations. Building this habit early makes solving more complex equations in later grades feel much more manageable.
Teaching Tips to Make Equations Stick
Encourage your students to always check their solutions by substituting their answer back into the original equation. For example, if they solve x + 8 = 20 and say x = 12, they should plug it back in and confirm that 12 + 8 = 20. That check reinforces accuracy and keeps them focused on the purpose of solving, which is to find a value that makes the equation true.
Also, be sure to vary how equations are presented. Sometimes, the variable will be on the left and sometimes on the right. Whether it’s x – 16 = 22 or 22 = x – 16, they should feel confident using inverse operations no matter the layout.
When moving into real-world problems, model how to translate those scenarios into one-step equations. For instance, “Kathy had some money and spent $16 at the music store. She was left with $34” becomes x – 16 = 34. Solving these types of problems helps your students better connect math to everyday situations.
A Classroom Resource for Teaching One-Step Equations
If you’re looking for a complete lesson on one-step equations, my Addition and Subtraction Equations resource is a fantastic tool. It includes both print and digital formats, so you can use it flexibly throughout your unit.
This resource gives your students clear, scaffolded support for identifying operations, applying inverse operations, and writing out each step. It includes a guided lesson page with examples, a set of “You Try It” problems, independent practice, and two exit tickets. You’ll also get a complete teacher key and a Google Slides version for digital learners.
Whether you’re reviewing or introducing this concept for the first time, this resource helps build the skills your students need to confidently solve one-step equations.
Teaching one-step equations doesn’t have to be overwhelming for you or your students. With clear steps, consistent modeling, and meaningful practice, your students will build the confidence they need to solve equations independently. Use this lesson and video to give them the strong foundation they’ll carry into all future algebra work.
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