Explicit teaching — I Do (~15 min)
The big idea of this lesson is that the equals sign expresses a relationship, not an instruction to "write the answer". Build everything on the balance model.
1. The equals sign means "the same value" WA6MNAUE1
Model that 7 + 5 and 15 − 3 both equal 12, so 7 + 5 = 15 − 3 is a true statement. Stress that "=" is not "the answer comes next".
2. Inequalities
Introduce <, > and ≠. Model 6 × 3 > 5 × 3 and explain why the open mouth of the symbol "points" at the larger side.
3. Order of operations & brackets
Build the convention step by step — brackets, then × and ÷, then + and − — rather than just stating a mnemonic.
Guided practice — We Do (~20 min)
- True or false? Display statements (e.g. 8 + 6 = 20 − 6; 4 × 5 = 25; 9 + 3 ≠ 15 − 2). Students vote on whiteboards and justify each.
- Fill the gap. Complete equalities such as 5 × □ = 30 ÷ 2 together.
- Brackets matter. Compute 12 − 2 × 3 and (12 − 2) × 3 as a class and discuss why the answers differ.
- Build your own. Pairs construct one true equality and one true inequality, each using at least two operations.
Independent practice — You Do (~15 min)
Students complete the worksheet:
- label statements true or false, correcting the false ones;
- insert =, < or > to make statements true;
- evaluate expressions applying the order of operations, with and without brackets;
- construct two of their own true statements using brackets.