October 31st, 2025
Dear families,
This winter your student will learn how to solve equations and inequalities — essential skills that build problem-solving, logical reasoning, and the ability to model real-life situations. Below is a clear overview of what to expect, how we teach it, and ways you can support learning at home.
Understand the difference between an equation (two expressions are equal) and an inequality (one expression is greater or less than another).
Use inverse operations to isolate a variable and solve one-step and multi-step linear equations.
Solve equations that include parentheses and fractions.
Solve linear inequalities, graph solutions on a number line, and interpret solution sets.
Check solutions by substituting answers back into the original equation or inequality.
Solving equations and inequalities helps students develop transferable skills used in higher-level math, science, technology, finance, and everyday decision-making — for example, balancing budgets, setting limits, and solving problems with unknown values.
I can solve one-step and multi-step linear equations and explain my steps.
I can check my solution by substituting it back into the equation.
I can solve linear inequalities and represent the solution on a number line.
I can use equations and inequalities to model real-world problems.
Think-aloud modeling: teacher demonstrates step-by-step reasoning out loud.
Multiple strategies: combining like terms, clearing fractions, and using inverse operations.
Error analysis: students examine common mistakes to deepen understanding.
Formative checks: exit tickets, quick quizzes, and whiteboard demos to monitor progress.
One-step equation: Solve x + 7 = 12 → x = 5 (subtract 7 from both sides)
Multi-step equation: Solve 3(x - 2) = 9 → x = 5 (divide both sides by 3, then add 2)
Equation with fractions: Solve x/4 + 3 = 8 → x = 20 (subtract 3 from both, then multiply by 4)
Inequality: Solve and graph 2x - 3 > 7 → x > 5 (open circle at 5, shade left)
Frequent quick checks (exit tickets, mini-quizzes).
Problem-solving tasks requiring written explanations.
Unit assessment with practice review and a study guide.
Ask your child to explain the steps: “Why did you subtract 7?” or “How did you check your answer?”
Practice briefly each day — 5–10 minutes of mixed problems (one-step, two-step, inequalities).
Use real-life examples: budgeting (equations) or setting limits (inequalities).
Encourage showing work and checking answers by substitution.
Solve x - 4 = 9
Solve 5x = 35
Solve and graph 2x + 2 > 6