Writing Equations from Word Problems

Front

What is an equation?

Back

An equation is a mathematical statement that asserts the equality of two expressions, typically containing variables.

Front

What does it mean to write an equation from a word problem?

Back

It means to translate the information given in the word problem into a mathematical equation that can be solved.

Front

What is a variable in an equation?

Back

A variable is a symbol, often represented by a letter, that stands for an unknown value in an equation.

Front

How do you identify the unknown in a word problem?

Back

The unknown is usually what the problem is asking you to find, often indicated by phrases like 'how much' or 'what is'.

Front

What is the first step in solving a word problem?

Back

The first step is to read the problem carefully and identify the key information and what is being asked.

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable?

Back

To isolate a variable means to manipulate the equation so that the variable is on one side of the equation by itself.

Front

What is a linear equation?

Back

A linear equation is an equation that makes a straight line when graphed, typically in the form y = mx + b.

Front

How can you check if your equation is correct?

Back

You can check if your equation is correct by substituting your solution back into the original equation to see if both sides are equal.

Front

What is a tape diagram?

Back

A tape diagram is a visual model that uses rectangles to represent numbers and their relationships, often used to solve word problems.

Front

What does it mean to divide a bill evenly?

Back

Dividing a bill evenly means to split the total cost equally among all participants.