Visual  Equations
 Topic Index | Algebra Index | Regents Exam Prep Center

 

Here's an idea to try with students who have trouble with abstract concepts, and who might benefit from a more visual approach.
(Algebra Tiles can be useful for demonstrating solutions of equations.)

 

1. Solve for x:    x + 3 = 7

   

To solve take the same thing away from both sides - take away 3 ones.    

    So the solution is  x = 4

 

 

2. Solve for x:  2x - 3 = x + 2

To solve, first take away one x from both sides.

Then, to remove a red tile on one side, tell the students they have to add a blue tile on the other side.

So the solution is  x = 5

 

 

3. Solve for x:    4(x + 2) = 2x + 10
 
 
 

To solve, first take away  2 x's from both sides.



Now take away eight  1's from both sides.

 

Now arrange what's left into equal groups on both sides.

Therefore, each x = 1.

 

 

4. Solve for x:   x + 3 = 11 - 3x



  

To solve, first take away three  1's from both sides.



Now, to remove a red tile from the right, add a blue tile to the left.


  Now arrange what's left into equal groups on both sides.

Therefore, each x = 2.