Solving Equations
Strand: Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)
Outcome: 2
Step 3: Plan for Instruction
Guiding Questions
- What learning opportunities and experiences should I provide to promote learning of the outcomes and permit students to demonstrate their learning?
- What teaching strategies and resources should I use?
- How will I meet the diverse learning needs of my students?
A. Assessing Prior Knowledge and Skills
Before introducing new material, consider ways to assess and build on students’ knowledge and skills related to representing algebraic expressions in multiple ways.
Ways to Assess and Build on Prior Knowledge 
B. Choosing Instructional Strategies
Consider the following general strategies for teaching how to solve linear equations.
- Students need to be engaged in learning activities that will enhance their understanding of algebraic concepts.
- Students should be given many opportunities to make sense of the way that algebra uses symbols and letters to represent mathematical ideas. It is important for students to connect the differences and the similarities between algebraic notation and whole number operations.
- Students should practise procedures for evaluating and solving equations only after they have learned to make sense of equations, expressions and how and why they are used in algebra.
- The use of models such as balances and algebra tiles help students to visualize concepts. Visual representations build lasting and meaningful understandings in algebra.
- Students must be given opportunities to communicate their thinking with other students and with the teacher. Students learn by explaining their reasoning and by listening to the strategies of other students.
- Students develop an understanding of concepts through problem solving.
C. Choosing Learning Activities
Learning Activities are examples of activities that could be used to develop student understanding of the concepts identified in Step 1.
Grade 8
