Virginia SOL 7.PFA.3.e
The Standard
Create a verbal situation in context given a two-step linear equation in one variable.
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will write and solve two-step linear equations in one variable, including problems in context, that require the solution of a two-step linear equation in one variable.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students turn a two-step equation into a believable situation. They explain what the variable, numbers, operations, and equal sign mean in that situation.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student can write a realistic situation that matches every part of the equation. The student clearly defines the variable, includes units, and explains the fixed amount, repeated amount, and total.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may confuse the fixed amount with the amount charged for each item. They may write a story for 4(x + 7) = 31 when the given equation is 4x + 7 = 31, or leave out what the total represents.
How to Assess It
- Give students 5x + 8 = 43 and ask them to write a matching situation. Require them to define x and explain what 5, 8, and 43 represent.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Build 3x + 5 = 20 with three cups and counters, then have students write a matching purchase story.
Ask, “How are stories for 4x + 6 = 30 and 4(x + 6) = 30 different?” and discuss specific examples.
Match equation cards with situation cards, then rewrite one incorrect card so every number and operation fits.
Show a taxi equation with a starting fee and per-mile cost, then ask students to create the full trip situation.
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Printable 7.PFA.3.e Worksheet
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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.
- 8.PFA.4.d
Create a verbal situation in context given a multistep linear equation in one variable.
- 8.PFA.5.d
Create a verbal situation in context given a multistep linear inequality in one variable.
- 6.PFA.3.f
Create a verbal situation in context given a one-step linear equation in one variable.
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