standard_description: Explain each step in solving a simple equation as following from the equality of numbers asserted at the previous step, starting from the assumption that the original equation has a solution. Construct a viable argument to justify a solution method.
problem_activity: Narrative
The purpose of this activity is for students to solve two-step word problems using all four operations. Students should be encouraged to solve the problem first or write the equation first, depending on their preference. Encourage students to use parentheses if needed to show what is being done first in their equations.
When students make sense of situations to solve two-step problems they reason abstractly and quantitatively (MP2).
MLR5 Co-Craft Questions.
Keep books or devices closed. Display only the problem stem, without revealing the question. Give students 2–3 minutes to write a list of mathematical questions that could be asked about this situation, before comparing their questions with a partner. Invite each group to contribute one written question to a whole-class display. Ask the class to make comparisons among the shared questions and their own. Reveal the intended questions for this task and invite additional connections.
Advances: Reading, Writing
Engagement: Develop Effort and Persistence.
Some students may benefit from feedback that emphasizes effort and time on task. For example, check in and give feedback after each party planning problem.
Supports accessibility for: Attention
Required Materials
Materials to Gather
Base-ten blocks
Materials to Copy
Centimeter Grid Paper - Standard
Launch
Groups of 2
Give students access to grid paper and base-ten blocks.
Activity
“Work independently to solve these problems and write an equation with a letter for the unknown quantity to represent each situation. You can choose to solve the problem first or write the equation first.”
5–7 minutes: independent work time
“Share your solutions and your equations with your partner. Also, tell your partner if you think their solutions and equations make sense or why not.”
5–7 minutes: partner discussion
Student Facing
For each problem:
a. Write an equation to represent the situation. Use a letter for the unknown quantity.
b. Solve the problem. Explain or show your reasoning.
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Kiran is making paper rings each day to decorate for a party. From Monday to Thursday he was able to complete 156 rings. Friday, Kiran and 2 friends worked on making more rings. Each of them made 9 more rings. How many rings did they make over the week?
Mai has 168 muffins. She put 104 of the muffins in a basket. She packed the rest of the muffins into 8 boxes with the same number of muffins. How many muffins were in each box?
There are 184 cups on a table. Three tables with 8 people at each table come up to get drinks and each use a cup. How many cups are on the table now?
Student Response
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Advancing Student Thinking
If students don't write a single equation to represent both steps of the problem, consider asking:
“What equations did you write for each part of the problem?”
“How could you combine your equations into one equation that would represent the problem?”
Activity Synthesis
For each problem have a student share their equation and discuss how it represents the problem.
Consider asking:
“Where do we see ______ from the problem in the equation?”
“What information from the situation did we need to solve and write our equation?”
“How are parentheses used in the equation?”


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