standard_description: Solve multi-step real-life and mathematical problems posed with positive and negative rational numbers in any form (whole numbers, fractions, and decimals), using tools strategically. Apply properties of operations to calculate with numbers in any form; convert between forms as appropriate; and assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies. For example: If a woman making $25 an hour gets a 10% raise, she will make an additional 1/10 of her salary an hour, or $2.50, for a new salary of $27.50. If you want to place a towel bar 9 3/4 inches long in the center of a door that is 27 1/2 inches wide, you will need to place the bar about 9 inches from each edge; this estimate can be used as a check on the exact computation.
problem_activity: Warm-up
This warm-up parallels the one in the previous lesson. The purpose of this Algebra Talk is to elicit strategies and understandings students have for solving equations. These understandings help students develop fluency and will be helpful later in this unit when students will need to be able to come up with ways to solve equations of this form. While four equations are given, it may not be possible to share every strategy. Consider gathering only two or three different strategies per problem, saving most of the time for the final question.
Students should understand the meaning of
solution to an equation
from grade 6 work as well as from work earlier in this unit, but this is a good opportunity to re-emphasize the idea.
In this string of equations, each equation has the same solution. Digging into why this is the case requires noticing and using the structure of the equations (MP7). Noticing and using the structure of an equation is an important part of fluency in solving equations.
Launch
Display one equation at a time. Give students 30 seconds of quiet think time for each equation and ask them to give a signal when they have an answer and a strategy. Keep all equations displayed throughout the talk. Follow with a whole-class discussion.
Representation: Internalize Comprehension.
To support working memory, provide students with sticky notes or mini whiteboards.
Supports accessibility for: Memory; Organization
Student Facing
Solve each equation mentally.
\(x -1 = 5 \)
\(2(x-1) = 10 \)
\(3(x-1) = 15 \)
\(500 = 100(x-1)\)
Student Response
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Activity Synthesis
This discussion may go quickly, because students are likely to recognize similarities between this equation string and the one in the previous day’s warm-up.
Ask students to share their strategies for each problem. Record and display their responses for all to see. To involve more students in the conversation, consider asking:
“Who can restate ___’s reasoning in a different way?”
“Did anyone have the same strategy but would explain it differently?”
“Did anyone solve the equation in a different way?”
“Does anyone want to add on to _____’s strategy?”
“Do you agree or disagree? Why?”
Speaking: MLR8 Discussion Supports.
: Display sentence frames to support students when they explain their strategy. For example, "First, I _____ because . . ." or "I noticed _____ so I . . . ." Some students may benefit from the opportunity to rehearse what they will say with a partner before they share with the whole class.
Design Principle(s): Optimize output (for explanation)


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