One-Step Equations
A free Pre-Algebra lesson from the “Algebra Readiness” unit, with a worked example and practice problems including step-by-step solutions.
An equation is balanced when both sides are equal. To solve for a variable, undo the operation connected to it. Addition and subtraction undo each other; multiplication and division undo each other. In Algebra Readiness, the goal is not just to get an answer but to recognize the structure of the problem, choose a reliable strategy, and explain why the result is reasonable. The practice set now includes targeted skill work, transfer questions, and mixed review so students build fluency and retention.
What you'll learn
- Use inverse operations
- Isolate the variable
- Check a solution by substitution
Worked example
Problem. Solve x - 7 = 15.
- The variable has 7 subtracted from it.
- Undo subtraction by adding 7 to both sides.
- x = 22. Check: 22 - 7 = 15.
- Connect the calculation back to One-Step Equations so the method, not just the arithmetic, is clear.
Answer: 22
Lesson preview: this page shows 5 practice items. The interactive activity contains 28 practice items and 15 quiz items (typed response and multiple choice). Counts include repeated prompts and variants.
Practice problems
1. Solve x + 9 = 24.
Show solution
- Subtract 9 from both sides.
- 24 - 9 = 15.
Answer: 15
2. Solve y - 6 = 11.
Show solution
- Add 6 to both sides.
- 11 + 6 = 17.
Answer: 17
3. Solve 4x = 28.
Choices: 7 · 24 · 32 · 112
Show solution
- Undo multiplication by dividing by 4.
- 28 divided by 4 equals 7.
Answer: 7
4. Solve n/5 = 6.
Show solution
- Undo division by multiplying both sides by 5.
- 6 x 5 = 30.
Answer: 30
5. Solve a - 13 = 8.
Show solution
- Add 13 to both sides.
- 8 + 13 = 21.
Answer: 21
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