Math · Stage 6
Construct and solve a simple linear equation to find an unknown (e.g. 2x + 3 = 11)
Turn a situation into an equation like 2x + 3 = 11, solve it by undoing each step in reverse to get x on its own, and check the answer by substituting it back.
✦ Math📘 Stage 6 · S6⏱ ~14 min🧒 Ages 10–12★ Free to start
I can construct a simple linear equation and solve it to find the unknown, then check my answer.
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Kavi's Mystery Acorn Bags 🌰
Kavi filled 2 bags with the same number of acorns, then found 3 more on the ground — 11 acorns in all! "Call each bag x," Kavi hoots. "Then 2x + 3 = 11 — a little equation ⚡! I undo the steps backwards: take the 3 off (2x = 8), then share into 2 bags (x = 4). Four acorns in each — and I check: 2 × 4 + 3 = 11. It fits!"
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What your child will learn
1Pull the extra off first2x + 3 = 11 says: 2 lots of x, plus 3, make 11. The whole 11 is built from the +3 and the 2x part. Take the 3 off the total first: 11 − 3 = 8, so the two bags hold 8 together. Tap less/more to split 11 into its two parts.
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A peek inside
Solve 2x + 3 = 11 and check your answer.
undo +3 → 2x = 8; undo ×2 → x = 4; check: 2·4 + 3 = 11 ✓
Try this at home: Solve: 2x + 5 = 17 → x = __
Ready to play and learn?
Start the free interactive lesson, or print the handout for screen-free play.
Part of Math · Stage 6 · S6 on KAVI Academy — a secular, whole-child learning platform for ages 5–12.