An equation is a mathematical statement that shows two expressions are equal. It contains an equal sign (=) and consists of two sides: the left-hand side and the right-hand side. The goal in solving an equation is to find the value of the variable that makes the equation true.
Types of Equations
There are various types of equations, such as:
Linear Equations: These equations have the highest power of the variable as 1, and can be represented in the form y = mx + b.
Quadratic Equations: These equations have the highest power of the variable as 2, and can be represented in the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0.
Number and Operations: Students' work in dividing fractions shows them that they can express the result of dividing two whole numbers as a fraction (viewed as parts of a whole). Students then extend their work in grade 5 with division of whole numbers to give mixed number and decimal solutions to division problems with whole numbers. They recognize that ratio tables not only derive from rows in the multiplication table but also connect with equivalent fractions. Students distinguish multiplicative comparisons from additive comparisons.