Math Lesson Plan · Grade 1

Equal Sign Lesson

Teach first graders that the equal sign means both sides of an equation have the same value. The lesson introduces the concept with clear examples, followed by an 18-problem fill-in-the-blank worksheet where students find the missing number that makes each equation true. Answer key included.

Lesson Overview

The Equal Sign

The equal sign (=) tells us that two quantities are the same amount. When we write 3 + 1 = 4, we mean that three plus one is the same as four. Students who understand this concept can recognize when an equation is balanced and find missing numbers that make equations true.

This lesson introduces the equal sign with a clear definition and examples, then gives students 18 fill-in-the-blank problems where they write the missing number on the blank side of the equation. Problems include basic addition facts and missing addends on both sides. The answer key covers all 18 problems.

How to Use This Lesson

1. Read the lesson on page 1 as a class. Work through the examples and discuss what it means for two numbers to be equal.

2. Complete the 18 fill-in-the-blank problems on page 2. Students write the missing number that makes each equation equal.

3. Review all answers using the key on page 3.

Printable Resource

A classroom-ready PDF with everything in one printable resource.

Keep Exploring Math