GRADE 1 · ALBERTAOUTCOME AB-G1-1N1
L3 · Equal and not equal: the balance model
Learning goal
“I can tell if two groups are equal, and I can show it with a balance.”
Equal — the same number on both sides.
Not equal — the numbers are not the same.
Balance — a tool with two pans. It shows which side has more.
Level — flat, not tipped. Level pans mean the two sides are equal.
Worked example
A balance has 4 cubes on the left pan and 4 cubes on the right pan. Step 1: Count each side: 4 and 4. Step 2: The numbers are the same, so the pans stay level. Step 3: The sides are equal.
Check yourself — explain it
The pans are level. What does that tell you?
Paired problem — example still visible
A balance has 6 cubes on each pan. Are the sides equal or not equal? -> Equal
Faded completion — last step is yours
"5 cubes on the left, 5 cubes on the right. The pans are ___, so the sides are ___." -> level; equal
Ready to practise?
8 scored questions with a 3-rung hint ladder. Mastery needs 7/8 plus both gate questions.