Solving two-step math equations

Solving two-step math equations - A brief guide for middle school students

Introduction

Math equations can be tricky to solve, especially for middle school students who are just starting to learn the basics of algebra. The good news is that two-step math equations are relatively straightforward and can be solved with a few simple steps. In this blog post, we will walk through two examples of two-step math equations so that middle school students can get a better understanding of how to solve them.

What are two-step math equations?

Two-step math equations are one of the most basic types of algebraic problems and involve solving for an unknown variable by combining two operations. These operations could include addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division. For example, if you are given the equation “3x + 5 = 17” then you would have to use both multiplication and addition in order to find the value of x.

How to solve two-step math equations

The first step in solving any two-step math equation is to identify which operation needs to be performed first. Generally speaking, it’s best to start with the operation closest to the unknown variable (in our example above, that would be multiplication). Once you’ve identified which operation should be done first, you can begin solving the equation.

Example 1:

3x + 5 = 17

We want to find out what x equals in this equation. Start by isolating the unknown variable on one side of the equal sign (in this case, that means subtracting five from both sides): 3x + 5 – 5 = 17 – 5 → 3x = 12. Now we know that whatever x is multiplied by three must equal twelve; therefore, we can divide both sides by three in order to isolate x: 3x/3 = 12/3 → x = 4. So we have determined that x equals four!

Example 2:

8 ÷ 2(x + 1) = 4

In this example, we want to figure out what x equals when eight is divided by two times “x plus one” (2(x + 1)). To solve this equation, start by using parentheses and distributing the two across each term within them: 8 ÷ 2(x + 1) → 8 ÷ 2x + 8 ÷ 2 = 4 . Then move all terms with an x on one side of the equal sign and all terms without an x on the other side (in this case, subtract eight over two from both sides): 8÷2x – 8÷2 = 4 -8÷2 → 8÷2x= 4-4=0 → 8÷2X= 0 → X= 0. Therefore we have determined that X equals zero!

Conclusion

With some practice and dedication, middle school students can learn how to solve even complex math equations like two-step ones! By breaking down each step into smaller parts and taking your time while working through each problem slowly but surely, middle schoolers will be able to tackle even difficult math problems with confidence! Parents and teachers should consider providing additional resources such as online lessons or tutoring sessions in order for students to gain a deeper understanding of these topics before moving onto more advanced topics like trigonometry or calculus.