The equals sign indicates that the expressions on its two sides have the same value, rather than signaling that the number after it is the answer; this applies in sentences such as , , and . This understanding enables reasoning about equivalent expressions and unknowns in any position, using whole-number addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division relationships, and provides a foundation for solving equations and representing general relationships.
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Detailed Explanation: Understand the equals sign
The equals sign means “has the same value as.” It does not mean “the answer comes next.”
Look at this example:
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Find the value on the left side:
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Find the value on the right side:
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Both sides have the same value, . So the equation is true:
You can also write the same relationship in a different order:
The equals sign still means that both sides have the same value. When you see , compare the expressions on both sides.
Learn by doing: Understand the equals sign
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Practice:
Addition - Balance Equation - One Digit, Two Terms
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Download/Modify Free Grade 3 'Understand the equals sign' Worksheet
Print this free 'Understand the equals sign' worksheet to practice this skill away from the computer. Click 'Modify' to easily customize this worksheet to your exact needs.
This Worksheet Includes:
- Addition - Balance Equation - One Digit, Two Terms
- Addition - Balance Equation - Two Digit, Two Terms
- Addition & Subtraction - Balance Equation - One Digit, Two Terms
- Addition & Subtraction - Balance Equation - Two Digit, Two Terms
- Addition - Balance Equation - One Digit, Three Terms
- Addition & Subtraction - Balance Equation - Two Digit, Three Terms
- Multiplication - Balance Equation - One Digit, Two Factors
- Addition - Missing Value, 1 Digit, 1 Number
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