Montana Math MT.1.OA.8

Math1st GradeOperations and Algebraic Thinking

The Standard

Understand the meaning of the equal sign and determine if equations are true or false.

2026 Montana Mathematics Content Standards

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students compare the amounts on both sides of an equation. They use counters, drawings, or counting to decide whether the amounts match.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can show why 4 + 2 = 5 + 1 works by counting both sides. They can explain why 3 + 4 = 3 + 5 does not work.
Common Misconceptions: Students may think the equal sign means to write the answer next. They may say 3 + 2 = 4 + 1 is wrong because neither side is a single number.
How to Assess It: Exit ticket: Circle the equation that works, 4 + 2 = 5 + 1 or 4 + 2 = 5 + 2. Draw dots on both sides to show why.

Lesson moves

Give pairs 12 counters and a card showing 4 + 2 = 3 + 3; have them build each side and compare totals.
Write 5 = 2 + 3 on the board and ask, 'Can the total come first? How do you know?'
Have students sort cards showing 6 = 4 + 2, 3 + 1 = 2 + 2, and 5 + 1 = 5 + 2 into works and does not work.
Set out plates with 2 crackers plus 3 grapes and 4 crackers plus 1 grape; ask whether the plates have the same number of pieces.

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