First Grade · Math · week 20

Both sides of the equals sign

Understand the equals sign as "the same amount as," including expressions on both sides.

The equals sign (=) means "the same amount as" -- it does not always mean "here comes the answer." Both sides of the equals sign must balance, like a seesaw that is level.

That means 5 + 3 = 8 is true, but so is 8 = 5 + 3, and even 4 + 4 = 3 + 5, because both sides equal 8.

📋 For the teacher
Teach it (10–15 min):
  • Use a real balance scale or a seesaw picture -- both sides must weigh the same for it to be true.
  • Mix up equation order on purpose, with the answer first or the blank in the middle, so your child does not expect one fixed pattern.
  • Ask "does it balance?" instead of "what is the answer?" to build the right mental model.
  • Praise checking BOTH sides, even on easy problems -- that habit prevents bigger mistakes later.
Talk about it:
  • What does the equals sign really mean?
  • Can the answer come before the equals sign? Show an example.
  • How do you check if both sides of an equation balance?

Mastery looks like: They understand = as "the same amount as" and find a missing number in equations written in any order.

Common stumbles: Thinking = always means "answer comes next"; adding every number in the problem instead of balancing two sides.

Homework for this lessonType it, write it with a stylus, or print it for pencil & paper.open →
Records attendance + 15 min of Math for this learner.
← Back to todayAll coursesYear planner