Basic Algebra/Solving Equations/Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides of the Equation

Vocabulary

 * Variable: A letter ($$a$$-$$z$$) that takes the place of a number.


 * Equation: An example would be like $$8y - 3 = 1 + 10y$$ (The answer is $$y=-2$$ )

Lesson
NOTE: WHAT YOU DO TO ONE SIDE YOU MUST DO TO THE OTHER SIDE! NO EXCEPTIONS!

1) do the distributive property.

2) Combine like terms on both sides.

3) add/subtract numbers next to a variable on both sides.

4) divide by the number next to the variable on both sides.

5) The answer should look like: $$x=20$$ or $$20=x$$.

(Note: the variables and numbers may vary in your answer.)

Example Problems
A simple problem:

Practice Games
Put links here to games that reinforce these skills

Purplemath.com: http://www.purplemath.com/modules/index.htm

Practice Problems
Note: Use  as the fraction line and put spaces between wholes and fractions!  {$$3x - 2 = x + 16$$ Answer:{ 9_8 }
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{$$2y = 15 - y$$ Answer:{ 5_8 }
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{$$\frac{z - 5}{-3} = 9 + 3.4z$$ Answer: { -55/28|-1 27/28_8 }
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