Virginia SOL 5.PFA.2.d
The Standard
Create and write a word problem to match a given equation with a single variable and one operation.
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will investigate and use variables in contextual problems.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students identify what the variable represents and how the known quantities are connected by the operation. They write a clear situation and question that match every number and symbol.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Given x − 18 = 27, a student can describe someone starting with an unknown amount, giving away 18, and having 27 left. The student can explain what each part of the equation represents.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may reverse the order in subtraction or division stories. They may treat the variable as a label instead of an unknown quantity. Some add extra steps or ask about a different quantity.
How to Assess It
- Give students x ÷ 4 = 9. Ask them to write a matching story, circle the unknown quantity, and label where each number appears.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs counters and equation cards, then have them build each equation and write a matching story on an index card.
Post 7n = 42 and ask students to write a story, then explain what 7, n, and 42 represent.
Run an equation-story matching game with card sets, including a few believable stories that use the wrong operation or unknown.
Show a $36 receipt for four identical notebooks, then give 4n = 36 and have students write the receipt's story.
Free download
Printable 5.PFA.2.d Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 5.PFA.2.d, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
Download the worksheetKeep exploring
Related Standards
- 5.PFA.2.b
Write an equation (with a single variable that represents an unknown quantity and one operation) from a contextual situation, using addition, subtraction, multi...
- 6.PFA.3.e
Write a one-step linear equation in one variable to represent a verbal situation, including those in context.
- 7.PFA.3.e
Create a verbal situation in context given a two-step linear equation in one variable.
- 6.PFA.3.f
Create a verbal situation in context given a one-step linear equation in one variable.
Turn this exact standard into a lesson
Grade, subject, topic, and the complete standard are prefilled. Create one free, no account needed.