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Solving Equations

Strand: Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)
Outcomes: 5, 6

Curriculum Focus

This sample targets the following changes in the curriculum:

• The General Outcome focuses on representing algebraic expressions in multiple ways, whereas the previous mathematics curriculum focused on communicating rules for and predicting from numerical and non-numerical patterns, including those found in the community.
• The Specific Outcome focuses on expressing a given problem as an equation in which a symbol is used to represent an unknown and then solving the one-step equation, whereas the previous mathematics curriculum focused on identifying and explaining mathematical relationships and patterns using tables, graphs, objects, Venn/Carroll/ tree diagrams and technology.

Solving Equations addresses the following outcomes from the Program of Studies:

Strand:	Patterns and Relations (Variables and Equations)
Specific Outcomes:	5. Express a given problem as an equation in which a symbol is used to represent an unknown number. 6. Solve one-step equations involving a symbol to represent an unknown number.

What is a Planning Guide?

Planning Guides are a tool for teachers to use in designing instruction and assessment that focuses on developing and deepening students' understanding of mathematical concepts. This tool is based on the process outlined in Understanding by Design, by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe.

The following steps will help you through the Planning Guide:

• Step 1: Identify Outcomes to Address
• Step 2: Determine Evidence of Student Learning
• Step 3: Plan for Instruction
• Step 4: Assess Student Learning
• Step 5: Follow-up on Assessment

See Bibliography for reference information.