Lesson 6

The mathematical purpose of this lesson is to build understanding of equivalent equations by relating them to the representation of a balanced hanger. Students use hanger diagrams to represent moves for creating equivalent equations like adding the same value to each side or multiplying each side by the same value. In the associated Algebra 1 lesson, students work to understand that equations at each part of the solving process are equivalent. This lesson prepares students for that work by providing a concrete metaphor for acceptable moves that keep a balanced hanger in balance or keep two sides of an equation equal. Students construct viable arguements (MP3) as they explain their reasoning for why a hanger diagram is balanced.