The learner understands that equivalent expressions have the same value even when their numbers or operations are arranged differently, and can determine a missing whole-number value in equations and expressions involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, parentheses, and familiar properties such as distributivity. Reasoning relies on inverse operations, place value, and preserving equality rather than treating the equal sign as a signal to calculate only the left side; formal algebraic manipulation with general variables, fractions, or negative numbers is beyond this scope.
Equivalent expressions have the same value, even if they are written in different ways. To find a missing value, keep both sides equal and use an operation that helps you undo what is happening.
Example:
Step 1: Notice the matching parts.
Both sides include . The extra part on the right is .
Using the distributive property,
So the equation becomes
Step 2: Compare the extra parts.
After the matching parts, we need
Step 3: Find the missing number.
Ask: “What number times equals ?”
So,
Check:
and
Both sides equal , so is the missing value.
Click a topic below to practice the foundational skills you'll need, learn the steps, or master this skill
Earned ?