Writing Equations from Word Problems

Front

What is an equation?

Back

An equation is a mathematical statement that asserts the equality of two expressions, typically containing variables.

Front

What does it mean to write an equation from a word problem?

Back

It means to translate the words and relationships described in the problem into a mathematical equation that can be solved.

Front

What is a variable in an equation?

Back

A variable is a symbol, often represented by a letter, that stands for an unknown value in an equation.

Front

How do you identify the unknown in a word problem?

Back

The unknown is usually what the problem is asking you to find, often indicated by phrases like 'how much' or 'what is'.

Front

What is the first step in solving a word problem?

Back

The first step is to read the problem carefully and identify the key information and what is being asked.

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable?

Back

To isolate a variable means to manipulate the equation so that the variable is on one side of the equation by itself.

Front

What is a coefficient in an equation?

Back

A coefficient is a numerical factor that multiplies a variable in an equation.

Front

How can you check if your equation is correct?

Back

You can check by substituting your solution back into the original equation to see if both sides are equal.

Front

What is a constant in an equation?

Back

A constant is a fixed value that does not change, represented by a number in an equation.

Front

What does it mean to solve an equation?

Back

To solve an equation means to find the value of the variable that makes the equation true.