Balance Equal Game

Balance Equal Game
 
Do you know the secret of the Equals Sign? Most people think the equals sign (=) just means “and the answer is…” But in this game, you’ll discover its true power: it’s a balance scale. For an equation to be true, the left side must have the exact same value as the right side!
 

 

How to Play the Balance Equal Game
In this challenge, you are presented with two different addition expressions separated by an equals sign. One of those numbers is missing.

1. Calculate the “Known” Side: Add the two numbers on the side that is already complete (e.g., 4 + 6 = 10).
2. Find the Balance: Look at the other side. If you have a 7, how many more do you need to reach the same total (10)?
3. Solve the Mystery: Type in the missing number and check your balance.
    
   

This game helps students move past basic counting and into “Algebraic Thinking.” By relating the two sides of the equation, players practice:

• The Inverse Relationship: Realizing that if 7 + ? = 10, then 10 - 7 will give them the answer.
  
• Mental Flexibility: Learning that 10 isn’t just “ten”—it can be 5+5, 8+2, or 1+9.
  
• Equation Logic: Understanding that the equals sign is a fulcrum, ensuring both sides carry the same “weight.”
   
  

Example:
When the game starts, the screen shows this equation:
8 + 5 = 9 + ?

Step 1: Find the “Weight” of the Left Side
First, the student looks at the complete side. They need to find out what the total “weight” is that they are trying to match.
Thought: “What is 8 plus 5?"
Action: 8 + 5 = 13

Step 2: Look at the Right Side
Now, the student knows the right side must also equal 13 for the scale to be balanced.
Thought: “I have 9 on this side, but I need it to be 13."
Equation: 9 + ? = 13

Step 3: Use the Inverse (Subtraction)
This is where the relationship between addition and subtraction shines. To find the missing part, the student “thinks” subtraction.
Thought: “If I take my total (13) and subtract the part I already have (9), what is left?"
Calculation: 13 - 9 = 4

The Result
The student types 4 into the box.
Final Check: 8 + 5 is 13, and 9 + 4 is 13.
 

This video gives a clear, step-by-step approach to learn how to find the missing number to find the equal sign.

• Show Video

 

Check out our most popular games!

We welcome your feedback, comments and questions about this site or page. Please submit your feedback or enquiries via our Feedback page.