CCSS.Math.Content.1.OA.D.7
The standard
Understand the meaning of the equal sign, and determine if equations involving addition and subtraction are true or false.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Operations and Algebraic Thinking
What this standard means
Students need to understand that the equal sign means both sides have the same value. They should not read it as “the answer comes next.” They compare two sides of an equation, including facts written in different orders or with the total on the left.
Mastery looks like a child saying, “That is true because both sides make 7,” or “That is false because 5 is not the same as 7.” Common trouble spots are adding all the numbers together, ignoring the side split by the equal sign, or thinking equations must look like 3 + 4 = 7.
Ways to teach it
- Use two balance mats and counters to build 4 + 2 on one side and 3 + 3 on the other, then decide true or false.
- Ask students to explain in writing, “Is 8 = 5 + 3 true? How do you know?”
- Show five equations on cards, and have students sort them into true and false piles with a partner.
- Compare two snack plates, such as 2 crackers plus 3 grapes and 4 crackers plus 1 grape, and decide if the totals match.
Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.1.OA.D.7
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Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.OA.B
Understand and apply properties of operations and the relationship between addition and subtraction.
- CCSS.Math.Content.2.OA.A
Represent and solve problems involving addition and subtraction.
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.OA.D
Work with addition and subtraction equations.
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.OA.A
Represent and solve problems involving addition and subtraction.