Words to Equations Game

Words to Equations Game
This game is a comprehensive tool designed to help you master the translation of English phrases into algebraic logic. Scroll down the page for a more detailed explanation.
 

 

How to Play the Words to Equations Game

1. Choosing Your Difficulty
   When you launch the game, you’ll be presented with two distinct paths:
   Easy (Multiple Choice): You are given four equations. One is correct, and the others are common “trap” answers (like wrong order or wrong operation). This is great for learning to spot common mistakes.
   Hard (Type it in!): You must use your keyboard to construct the equations. There are no hints, and you must be precise with your symbols and order.
   
   
2. Identify the “Equals” Sign
   In an equation (unlike a simple expression), there is always a balance. Look for specific “anchor” words that represent the equal sign (=):
   “Is”
   “Equals”
   “Results in”
   “Is the same as”
   
   
3. Translate the Operations
   Break the sentence into chunks based on the four main operations. Watch out for “turn-around” phrases that change the order of the numbers.
   

Math Symbol	Verbal Keywords	Example
+	Sum, plus, increased by, more than	"5 more than x is 12" → x + 5 = 12
-	Difference, minus, less than, decreased by	"Difference of x and 3 equals -2" → x - 3 = -2
Multiplication (×)	product, twice (2), triple (3)	"Product of 4 and y is the same as 18" → 4y = 18
Division (/)	quotient, ratio, half, divided by	"Quotient of z and 2 results in 14" → z/2 = 14

 

4. Handle Grouping (Parentheses)
   If you see phrases like “times the sum of” or “twice the difference of,” the game is telling you to use parentheses. The addition or subtraction must happen before the multiplication.
   Example: “3 times the sum of x and 4 is 42” → 3(x + 4) = 42.
   
   
5. Winning Strategy
   Step 1: Read the whole sentence first to find the “is” (the =).
   Step 2: Identify the variable (usually x, y, n, or w).
   Step 3: Translate the left side of the “is."
   Step 4: Translate the right side of the “is."
   Step 5” Check for turn-arounds: If you see “less than,” make sure you put the subtraction at the end of that side.
   
   
6. Scoring and Results
   The Score Counter at the top tracks your progress (Correct / Total played).
    
   

Step-by-Step Translation Strategy
If you have a long phrase, follow these steps:
Step 1 Identify the Variable: Look for “a number” or a specific letter (x, n, y).
Step 2 Circle the Operators: Find words like “times,” “sum,” or “less than."
Step 3 Check for Order: Is there a “turn-around” word?
Step 4 Write the Expression: Assemble the parts like a puzzle.
 

The video gives a clear, step-by-step approach to write algebraic equations.

• Show Video

 

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