Maths Library

One-step equations: Grade 6 math

This topic introduces solving basic linear equations using inverse operations in a single step. The worksheet develops confidence in balancing equations with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

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What this covers

One-step equations is taught in Grade 6 (age 11 to 12) as a main teaching focus. It sits in the Algebra strand.

Worked example

Solve: x ÷ 4 = 7

  1. Identify the inverse operation of dividing by 4, which is multiplying by 4
  2. Multiply both sides by 4: x = 7 × 4
  3. Evaluate the product: x = 28

Answer: x = 28

Difficulty scale

The sheet generator offers five difficulty settings for this topic.

  1. Addition and subtraction with positive integers, e.g., x + 5 = 12
  2. Multiplication with positive integers, e.g., 3x = 21
  3. Division equations, e.g., x ÷ 4 = 6
  4. Equations with negative integers or negative answers, e.g., x - 8 = -3
  5. Equations where the coefficient is negative, e.g., -5x = 35 or -x = 9

Common mistakes

  • Applying the same operation instead of the inverse, e.g., adding 5 to solve x + 5 = 12
  • Dividing the wrong way around when solving equations like 12 = 3x

Curriculum links

Indicative matches to Common Core State Standards. Check wording and codes against the official document.

  • 6.EE.B.7 Solve real-world and mathematical problems by writing and solving one-step linear equations.

Sample sheet and answers

Six questions at the level's usual difficulty. Open the editor to change, add or regenerate any of them.

One-step equations

Grade 6 math

Qs
6
Marks
6
NameDateScore / 6
1.
x ÷ 8 = 6
[1]
2.
2x = 10
[1]
3.
x + 9 = 12
[1]
4.
x + 9 = 21
[1]
5.
9x = 117
[1]
6.
x − 3 = 2
[1]

Answer key

  1. x = 48Multiply both sides by 8; x = 48
  2. x = 5Divide both sides by 2; x = 5
  3. x = 3Subtract 9 from both sides; x = 3
  4. x = 12Subtract 9 from both sides; x = 12
  5. x = 13Divide both sides by 9; x = 13
  6. x = 5Add 3 to both sides; x = 5