Math Lesson Plan · Grades 6–9
Combining Like Terms Solving Equations Lesson
Extend students’ algebra skills by combining like terms on both sides of an equation before solving. The lesson bridges simplification and equation-solving into a single multi-step strategy. Includes 20 practice problems and answer key.
Subject
Math
Grades
Grades 6–9
Skill Focus
Combining like terms, solving equations, algebra, math
Lesson Length
30–45 minutes
Lesson Overview
Combining Like Terms to Solve Equations
When an equation contains like terms on the same side, simplify first before solving. For example, 3x + 5x = 16 simplifies to 8x = 16, then divide both sides by 8 to get x = 2. The lesson applies this two-step approach: combine like terms, then use inverse operations to isolate the variable.
The seven-page lesson walks through worked examples with increasingly complex expressions on both sides of the equation. Students complete 20 practice problems and check their work using the answer key on page 7.
How to Use This Lesson
1. Review combining like terms (pages 1–2). Show how simplified expressions set up the equation for solving.
2. Work through combining-then-solving examples together (pages 3–5). Emphasize doing each step in order.
3. Assign the 20 practice problems (page 6) independently. Review answers using the key on page 7.
Printable Resource
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Full Member Resource · Printable PDF · 7 pages
Combining Like Terms Solving Equations Lesson
Seven-page printable: simplifying expressions, combined equation examples, 20 practice problems, and answer key. Grades 6–9.