6-8
Students use the Balance Pans Applet- Expressions Tool to explore algebraic expressions. They determine if algebraic expressions are equal. They balance pans to solve a system of equations and use graphing to find the solutions to a system of equations.
3-5
In this lesson, students apply their knowledge of addition equations to create number sentences using an electronic balance tool.
Pre-K-2
In this lesson, students have an opportunity to explore the foundations of equivalence, an important step in their development of algebraic thinking as they see how quantities relate. Students explore equivalence by comparing weights of different collections of objects.
3-5
This lesson encourages students to explore another model of
multiplication, the balance beam, and another relationship, the inverse
of multiplication. This exploration leads naturally into representing
multiplication facts in equation form. In addition to extending their
understandings of the concept of multiplication, students begin to
practice the multiplication facts by playing the Product Game.
3-5
Explore several
meanings and representations of multiplication (number line, equal sets,
arrays, and balanced equations).
3-5
In this lesson for grades 3‑5, students participate in activities in
which they focus on patterns and relations that can be developed from
the exploration of balance, mass, length of the mass arm, and the
position of the fulcrum. The focus of this lesson is determining the
position necessary to balance uneven objects and the effect on balance
of moving the fulcrum.
6-8
In this lesson for grades 6‑8, students participate in activities in
which they focus on patterns and relations that can be developed from
the exploration of balance, mass, length of the mass arm, and the
position of the fulcrum. The focus of this lesson is the relationship
between the length of the arm and the mass of the objects.
Pre-K-2, 6-8
This lesson encourages students to explore another model of subtraction, the balance. Students will use real and virtual balances. Students also explore recording the modeled subtraction facts in equation form.
Pre-K-2
In this lesson for grades 1‑2, students balance pairs of like and
unlike objects by changing distance from the fulcrum. Students use a
crayon (as the fulcrum) and a ruler to represent the balance.
Pre-K-2
Students explore the use of variables as they solve for the weights of objects using information presented in pictures. They model situations that involve adding and subtracting whole numbers, using objects, pictures, and symbols.
