Patterns

& Relations (Grade 7)

Lesson #3
Grade
Duration of Lesson
Textbook

What is an Equation? (Using Algebra Tiles)

Grade 7
70 minutes
7.3, 8.1 (Mathpower Seven)

Objective:
Teach students the difference between expression and equation
Form an equation from words

Aim for Instructor:

Ensure holistic understanding of variables in expressions and equations
Ensuring students understand the differences and similarities of expressions
and equations

Prior Knowledge Required:

Vocabulary:
o Variables
o Expression
o Equations
How to solve expressions
Addition and Subtraction

Materials:
- Algebra tiles
- SMART Board technology

Time

5 minutes



10 minutes

Lesson

Pose the Question to the students: What is an equation?

Prompt question: How does an equation differ from an expression?

After receiving students feedback give the students the formal definition
of an equation:

An number sentence that contains a symbol and an equal sign

NOTE: Remind the students of the definition of an expression and state
the difference between the two - or have students brainstorm the
difference and make a chart on the SMART Board.
Doig, Gilbert, W-Giorgis

Patterns & Relations (Grade 7)

10 minutes Get students to come up with examples of equations and relate to how
its different from an expression.

10 minutes

30 minutes

Go through examples of equations with students using algebra tiles as a

class and emphasize the importance of equality to equations as it differs
from expressions.

Use algebra tiles individually or in small groups to begin depicting

equations. Have students use these physical manipulatives to gauge
understanding of what an equation represents pictorially.

5 minutes

Exit slip:
Have students write an equation and draw the algebra tile
depiction of their equation and hand it in individually as they
leave the classroom.

Meeting Needs of Diverse Learners:

Students Who Finish Early: Begin solving the equations with or without the use of
algebra tiles.
Students Who Appear To Be Struggling: Encourage use of algebra tiles and
straightforward examples starting with depicting expressions and working
towards depicting equations with the algebra tiles.

Assessment:
Formative Assessment: Assessing understanding based on what is seen during
group work time as well as what is received from individuals on exit slips.

Conclusion:
Emphasizing the difference between expression and equation and why this is
important.

Doig, Gilbert, W-Giorgis