Sixth graders learn that an expression is a math phrase you can simplify while an equation is a statement you can solve, and the equal sign is what tells them apart, then sort statements into the two groups.
Students will be able to…
In math, 4x + 2 is like a phrase and 4x + 2 = 10 is like a full sentence, and the equal sign is the difference. How do you tell an expression from an equation?
Project this and sort each one into equation or expression — tap a statement, then tap whether it has an equal sign.
Tap any phase to open the teacher moves and student actions.
In math, 4x + 2 is like a phrase, and 4x + 2 = 10 is like a full sentence. The equal sign is the difference. How do you tell an expression from an equation?
Students sort statements into equation and expression.
Students turn expressions into equations.
Students write both kinds.
Students reflect on the difference.
Aligned to the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (Grade 6).
Write, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers.
Understand solving an equation as finding values that make it true.
Solve real-world problems by writing and solving equations.
Attend to precision.
Preview the three formative checks. Tap “Sample answer” to see what mastery looks like — hide them before you print for students.
Have students write three expressions, turn each into an equation, and label which is which, so the role of the equal sign stands out. A printable equation-or-expression worksheet is in the Mathematics library.
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A quick self-check with instant feedback, drawn from this lesson’s key terms.
A print-and-go review sheet with a built-in answer key. Tap “Show answer key” to reveal answers, or print the clean version for students.