One-step Equations Using Addition and Subtraction Educational Resources K12 Learning, Expressions and Equations, Pre-Algebra, Math Lesson Plans, Activities, Experiments, Homeschool Help

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Have you heard the saying, "Fair is not always equal?" Well, that does not apply to algebra!

When you are adding and subtracting (multiplying and dividing as well) an algebraic equation, whatever you do to one side of the equation, you have to do to the other!

To be fair is to be equal to both sides.

Let's review the process of solving a one-step addition or subtraction equation:

You want to get the unknown variable that you are solving for?by itself?on?one?side of the equation.
To eliminate a term on one side of the equation, you use the?opposite mathematical operation. Remember, what you do to one side you have to do to the other side — this keeps the equation balanced.
Double-check your answer by substituting your value for the variable in the original equation.

Here is a wonderful Study Jam: Addition & Subtraction Equations from scholastic.com that will help give you a step-by-step review of how to solve one step equations. Click on the STEP-BY-STEP Green Circle to start.

For more review, and to brush up on how to handle integers in a linear equation, watch Ex: Solving One Step Equation by Add/Subtracting Integers (Var on Left):