Method of Teaching : Equation

In teaching Algebra, I allow my students to visualize a see-saw whenever they encounter an equation. The word equation comes from the word equal.

Given an equation, “Y + 3 = 7”, we place the “=” sign at the middle of the see-saw where the fulcrum is located. We place “Y + 3” at the left side of the fulcrum and “7” to the right side.

If the problem requires that only “Y” should remain in the left side, then to remove “ 3 ”, we have to subtract “3”. Since we have to maintain the balance or equality, then we have to do the same to the other side. So we subtract “3” in the left and also “3” in the right.

Y + 3 = 7
Subtract 3 on both sides. See below,

Y + 3    =    7
     - 3   =   -3
=========
Y          =    4

Remember the philosophy “If someone hits you on your left cheek, then let him hit your right cheek, too.” Of course, the hit must be of equal pressure to maintain the balance. He, he, he …