What this covers
Two-step and multi-step equations is taught in Grade 8 (age 13 to 14) as a topic to introduce. It sits in the Algebra strand.
Worked example
Solve: 4x - 7 = 2x + 9
- Subtract 2x from both sides: 2x - 7 = 9
- Add 7 to both sides: 2x = 16
- Divide both sides by 2: x = 8
Answer: x = 8
Difficulty scale
The sheet generator offers five difficulty settings for this topic.
- Two-step equations of the form ax + b = c with positive integers
- Two-step equations involving negative integers or divisions, e.g., x/3 - 4 = 5
- Equations with brackets, e.g., 3(2x - 1) = 21
- Equations with the unknown on both sides, e.g., 5x + 2 = 2x + 14
- Multi-step equations with brackets and unknowns on both sides, e.g., 3(x + 2) = 5x - 8
Common mistakes
- Dividing before eliminating the constant term, leading to fraction arithmetic errors
- Failing to change signs correctly when moving terms across the equals sign
Curriculum links
Indicative matches to Common Core State Standards. Check wording and codes against the official document.
- 8.EE.C.7 Solve linear equations in one variable with rational number coefficients, including equations requiring expanding brackets.