Math Lesson Plan · Grades 6–9

One Step Equations Subtraction Lesson

Teach students to solve one-step subtraction equations by adding the same value to both sides. The lesson reinforces the balance concept — what you do to one side you must do to the other — and guides students through isolating the variable. Includes 20 practice problems and answer key.

Lesson Overview

Solving One-Step Equations Using Subtraction

To solve a one-step subtraction equation, undo the subtraction by adding the same value to both sides. For example, to solve x − 3 = 9, add 3 to both sides to get x = 12. The lesson builds from the balance-scale concept introduced in the addition lesson.

The six-page lesson walks through worked examples with both positive and negative integers. Students then complete 20 practice problems independently. The answer key on page 6 covers all 20 problems.

How to Use This Lesson

1. Review the balance concept from the addition lesson (pages 1–2). Show how addition undoes subtraction.

2. Work through the subtraction equation examples together (pages 3–4). Practice adding to both sides.

3. Assign the 20 practice problems (page 5) independently. Review answers using the key on page 6.

Printable Resource

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