BALANCE

What does it mean?

“Balance” is a sense that two or more things should “match” or be “the same,” often in terms of value or number.

Why is Balance in the Equality & Inequality family of seeds?

Balance aligns well with equality; its opposite, imbalance, also aligns well with inequality

How does this connect to Algebra?

Balance is foundational for developing an understanding of equality. At a more advanced level, students may draw on it to understand the equals sign as a symbol showing balanced expressions on right and left.

What might children say?

Children may discuss a need to keep things balanced, the same, or fair. “That has to be the same as that,” may be used as a rationale for a particular line of reasoning on a task.

What might children do?

Children might depict a balance scale with their hands, settling at the same height, or might use an alternate gesture to depict balanced or “same” amounts for two or more things.

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Students may describe matching patterns or common differences, as above, as "the same."

Dealing hands for card games often prompts students to deal “balanced” hands of the same number of cards

Sharing snacks or toys leads to a situation where each participant gets a balanced benefit

Similarly, “keeping things fair” often results in those involved seeking a balanced solution where everyone has some equal benefit

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