1. Hands-On Algebra with Fractions and Mixed Numbers

2.  When you hear the word “algebra”, what do you think of?  What are some things you know about algebra?  How might you use algebra in real-life?  Think of a time when you have used algebra. Why was this important? (Money, “how much more do I need to have a certain amount?”, etc.)

3. What is an equation? An equation is a number sentence that contains an equal sign. Example of an equation: x+ ½ = 1

4. What is a variable? A variable is a letter or other symbol that represents an unknown number in an equation. Example of a variable: x + ½ = 1 We do not yet know what the value of “x” is, so “x” is the variable. In Hands-On Equations, the blue pawns represent the variable in your equation.

5.  Yellow “Balance” board  Each side of your balance is equal to the other!  Your goal is to have only pawns on one side, and only numbers/fractions on the other.  Let’s make a balance. How can I keep it in balance? What can I do to make it balanced?

6.  Blue Pawns “x”  The blue pawns represent your variables.  All your blue pawns have the same value in each equation, it’s your job to find the value!

7.  Red Number Cubes  The red cubes represent your whole numbers.

8.  Fraction Squares  The fraction squares represent your fractions.

9. Solve for x without using a calculator. x + ½ = 7/8 x = _____ Chk: _____ = _____ Think- What does “x” have to be equal to in order for the sum of the addition problem to be 7/8?

10.  We will now work through problems 1-10 on your Hands-On Guided Practice page.

11.  X + 2/5 = 1 x = _____ Chk: _____ = _____  4x + 1/6 = 4 1/6 x = ______ Chk: _____ = _____

12.  With your partner, make up some hands-on equations yourself.  You will have to test out some different ways!  Be sure to check your equations for correctness and create a separate answer key for your equations.