8th Grade Linear Equations Lesson Plan

Learning Objectives

• Solve multi-step linear equations using inverse operations.
• Justify each step using properties of equality.
• Check solutions by substitution.

• Display a visual balance puzzle: shapes on both sides. Ask: 'What does the triangle weigh?'
• Students solve mentally and share with a partner.
• Connect: 'A balance is like an equation — what we do to one side, we do to the other.'

• Model: 3x + 5 = 20. Show the balance model alongside the algebraic steps.
• Think-aloud each step: subtract 5 from both sides, then divide by 3.
• Model checking: substitute x = 5 back into the original equation.
• Second example: 2(x − 4) = 10. Emphasize distributing first.

• Students work in pairs on 4 equations of increasing difficulty.
• After problem 2, pause for a quick mid-check: one pair explains their steps.
• Teacher circulates and notes common errors for the debrief.

• 6 problems: 2 two-step, 2 multi-step, 2 with distribution.
• Early finishers: write an equation that has a solution of x = −3.
• Support: teacher works with a small group using algebra tiles.

• Exit ticket: Solve 4x − 7 = 13 and check your answer.
• 'Write one sentence explaining why we do the same operation to both sides.'
• Collect tickets to inform tomorrow's warm-up review.

Assessment

• Student product: Exit ticket with solved equation and written justification.
• Criteria: Correct solution, each step justified, solution checked by substitution.
• Success indicator: 80% of students correctly solve and check the exit ticket equation.