The Distributive Property
6-8
2
Solving Multi-Step Equations
Lesson Details
Grade Level
6-8
Duration (minutes)
2
Summary
A grade 6-8 math lesson teaching the five-step process for solving multi-step equations — simplify, move variable terms, move numbers, isolate the variable, and check — using two fully worked examples.
Student Worksheet: Solving Multi-Step Equations
Teacher Note: Students can watch the video lesson above and answer the questions. Click the “Teacher Answer Key” dropdown below when you are ready to review the solutions!
Key Concepts:
• The Roadmap: Simplify, move variable terms, move numbers, isolate the variable, and check.
• Balance: Whatever you do to one side of the equation, you must do to the other.
• Checking: Substitute your answer back into the original equation to confirm both sides match.
Instructions: Read each question carefully and write your answer in the space provided.
- Question 1: Solve: 2(x + 3) = 16
- Question 2: What property is used to simplify 2(x + 3) into 2x + 6?
- Question 3: Solve: 4x − 7 = 2x + 9
- Question 4: When variables appear on both sides of an equation, what should you do first?
- Question 5: How can you check that x = 8 is the correct solution to 4x − 7 = 2x + 9?
Click to reveal Teacher Answer Key
1. x = 5
2. The distributive property
3. x = 8
4. Move all the variable terms to one side by adding or subtracting
5. Substitute 8 back in: 4(8)−7 = 25 and 2(8)+9 = 25, so both sides match
Disclaimer: This worksheet was generated with AI assistance based on original video content. It is intended for educational reference only. Teachers are encouraged to review and adjust questions to fit their curriculum standards before classroom use.
🎯 Extension Activity: Give students a new multi-step equation, like 3(x − 2) = 5x − 4, and have them apply all five steps of the roadmap on their own, checking their final answer.