Distribute First or Divide First in Equations

Start with Two-Step Equations With Integers, then choose the variation that matches the skill. Use the checkpoint at the end to see what students can do on their own, and have students record their number correct in the score box.

Choose whether to distribute first or divide first, solve, and explain why that path was easier. The directions on the page read: Circle the path that is easier for each equation. Solve by that path in the box and write x. On the two lines, explain why that path was easier. Write fractions as mixed numbers in simplest form. An answer key is included.

Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade algebra, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.

Undo the addition or subtraction first, then undo the multiplication or division. For 3x + 5 = −16, subtract 5 to get 3x = −21 and divide by 3 to get x = −7. Two-Step Equations With Integers has students substitute x to check the answer.

Divide both sides by the negative number, and keep the sign on the answer. For −4x + 9 = 15, subtract 9 to get −4x = 6, so x = −3/2. Two-Step Equations With Negative Coefficients has at least 10 of these, and fraction answers go in simplest form.

Either path works, and the easier one depends on the numbers. In 7(x − 3) = 56, dividing by 7 first is easier. Distribute First or Divide First in Equations has students pick a path, solve and explain why it was easier.

Name the unknown, then match the fixed amount and the amount that repeats. A $12 launch fee plus $8 per hour for h hours, with $52 paid in all, gives 8h + 12 = 52. Write and Solve Two-Step Equations practices this with units on each answer.