Virginia SOL 6.PFA.3.e
The Standard
Write a one-step linear equation in one variable to represent a verbal situation, including those in context.
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will write and solve one-step linear equations in one variable, including contextual problems that require the solution of a one-step linear equation in one variable.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students identify the unknown quantity and represent it with a variable. They translate words and context clues into a one-step equation using the correct operation.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students define the variable and write an equation that matches the quantities and actions in the situation. They choose the correct operation and place each known value correctly.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may write an expression instead of an equation or leave out the variable. They may reverse subtraction or division, or mistake the total for the unknown.
How to Assess It
- Give this exit ticket: “Maya had some stickers. After giving away 7, she had 18. Define a variable and write an equation.”
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs counters, cups, and balance mats to model situation cards, then have them write the matching equation.
Ask students to compare x + 6 = 20 and x = 20 + 6, then explain which matches a given story.
Play a card-matching game with verbal situations, variable definitions, and equations, requiring students to justify each completed set.
Have students write an equation for finding an unknown cost, distance, score, or amount saved from a realistic scenario.
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Printable 6.PFA.3.e Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 6.PFA.3.e, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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Related Standards
- 7.PFA.3.d
Write a two-step linear equation in one variable to represent a verbal situation, including those in context.
- 6.PFA.3.f
Create a verbal situation in context given a one-step linear equation in one variable.
- 8.PFA.4.c
Write a multistep linear equation in one variable to represent a verbal situation, including those in context.
- 7.PFA.4.d
Write one- or two-step linear inequalities in one variable to represent a verbal situation, including those in context.
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