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Translate a problem into an equation

Mathematics — first biennium · Lesson

Equations · 8

From text to model, before calculating

A problem becomes an equation when you decide what x represents and translate the relationship between known quantities and the unknown. In this lesson you do not solve yet: you build the model.

Plan
Formula matematica
Example

Three identical items cost 24 euros. If x is the price of one item:

Formula matematica
What you need to know before the exercises

In this lesson: Choose the unknown and translate a verbal relationship into an equation without jumping directly to the solution.

You can already assume: Meaning of equations and reading algebraic expressions.

Try it now

Build the equation

Guided

Completed exercises: 0/5 · Correct on first attempt: 0

How to find x
  1. Read the final question first: which quantity are you asked to find?
  2. Call that quantity x. Numbers already written in the text are known data: they are not x.
  3. Identify the role of the known data: total, fixed amount, extra quantity, number of items…
  4. Write the relationship as an equality, but do not isolate x yet.
Problem

Three identical notebooks cost 18 euros in total. How much does one notebook cost?

Stop at the equation: do not solve for x yet.

Your competency map

What you need to know for Translate a problem into an equation

ConceptStep separates what is required from what is recommended or useful as reinforcement. Only required prerequisites block your progress.

Current topic Strong skill Review due Needs reinforcement To be mastered Optional support

Relationships: solid line = required · dashed line = recommended · dotted line = reinforcement.

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