7.3.B

Math7th Grade

The Standard

apply and extend previous understandings of operations to solve problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of rational numbers

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Mathematics

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do

Students translate situations into calculations with positive and negative integers, fractions, and decimals. They select the needed operation, calculate accurately, and explain what the answer means.

What Mastery Looks Like

Students solve one-step and multi-step problems with positive and negative integers, fractions, and decimals. They choose operations correctly, show clear work, and check whether the result is reasonable.

Common Misconceptions

Students often use integer sign rules for every operation, such as claiming two negatives always make a positive. They may subtract in the wrong order or forget to invert the divisor when dividing fractions.

How to Assess It

Use this exit ticket: Evaluate (-6 + 2.5 × 4 - 3) ÷ 0.5, then explain one sign decision.

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

  1. Give pairs a laminated number line, fraction strips, and counters to model four task cards, one for each operation.

  2. Ask, "Why is -3 - (-5) positive, but -3 + (-5) negative?" Students write, pair-share, and revise.

  3. Play Rational Number War: pairs flip two number cards and an operation card, calculate, and keep the cards for a correct answer.

  4. Give students a bank ledger with deposits, withdrawals, shared charges, and repeated fees, then have them calculate and justify the final balance.

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