Reply To: Lesson 4-1: The Stages of Mastery Action

[Stephanie Pritchett]

Solving algebraic equations:

#1 Students understand a balance model and that two side of the same thing can be equal

#2 Students see a new balance model but this balance model has 3 circles measuring the same as 6 squares. They understand they are equal, but don’t understand how.

#3 Students understand that one circle can be equal to two squares and that is how the model is balanced and learn strategies about how to remove and add equal items to both sides to keep the models on both sides the same.

#4 Students become proficient at solving equations by keeping models balanced by completing actions that keep sides balanced.

#5 Students can begin to understand the relationship of growth in linear equations.