Integer chips can be combined with a variable chip to represent simple algebraic equations. Here is a representation of the equation \(x + 2 = 6\text{:}\)
The equation can be "solved" by adding the same type and number of chips to both sides of the equation until the unknown chip has been isolated. Describe the step required to isolate the unknown and determine its value.
2.
The concept of division is making even groupings of things. The following is a visual demonstration of the fact that \(2x = 6\) means that \(x = 3\text{:}\)
Draw a series of integer chip diagrams that demonstrate solving the equation \(2x + 4 = -8\text{.}\)
3.
This type of visual representation of solving equations can be very helpful for introducing young children to algebraic reasoning. However, the practical use of this turns out to be very limited. Why do you think that is?
