Mississippi Math FA.A.5
The Standard
Compare and contrast an expression and an equation and give examples of each.
2025 Mississippi College- and Career-Readiness Standards for Mathematics
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students tell whether a math statement is an expression or an equation. They explain that an expression names a value, while an equation says two values are equal.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student can label 2y - 5 and 2y - 5 = 9 and explain the difference. They can write an example of each using the same variable.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may call 3x + 2 an equation because it has a variable. They may think 2 + 3 = 5 is not an equation because it has no variable.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Label 6a - 1 and 6a - 1 = 17. Write one expression and one equation using b, then explain what the equals sign changes.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs cards labeled 5n + 2, 5n + 2 = 17, and 8 = 8; have them sort the cards and explain each choice.
Ask: Can 7 = 7 be an equation without a variable? Have students write two sentences explaining their answer.
Project ten examples; students hold up E for equation or X for expression, then explain two of their choices.
Show a taxi fare rule, 4 + 2m, and a five-mile bill, 4 + 2(5) = 14; ask how they differ.
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Printable FA.A.5 Worksheet
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