One issue that I’ve seen my students struggle with is solving multi-step equations. The problems become more complex and have more steps in each grade level. This seems to become an issue in middle school.
My method of teaching this concept is to have them write down each step as they go. Although most students use computers to turn in their work, I prefer that they write the problem on paper. This way, they can see the correct way to solve it and find mistakes if they make them. Another positive is that repetition creates a pathway in the brain that allows the students to absorb the information more deeply and use less effort in solving this type of problem in the future. I always tell my students that the numbers change, but the formula is the same. I’ve included an example to help better understand the concept.
Multi-Step Equation with Distribution
2(3x+7)+x=70 distribute the constant to each term in the parentheses.
6x+14+x=70 combine like terms.
7x+14 =70; subtract 14 from both sides of the equation.
7x+14-14=70-14 Simplify
7x/7=56/7; divide both sides by 7 and solve for x.
X=8 solution
Visit Mullins Tutoring YouTube page for math videos.
Contact Mullins Tutoring, Inc. to see if we can assist you with your math needs.