GRADE 2 · ALBERTAOUTCOME AB-G2-2N1
L4 · The balance: equality and inequality
Learning goal
“I can use a balance to show if two amounts are equal or not equal.”
Balance — a scale with two pans that shows how two amounts compare.
Pan — the tray on each side of a balance that holds the objects.
Level — both pans at the same height. Level pans mean the amounts are equal.
Tip — to lean down on one side. The pan that tips down holds more.
Worked example
The left pan holds 8 cubes. The right pan holds 8 cubes. Step 1: Watch the pans: neither side drops. They sit at the same height. Step 2: Level pans mean the two amounts match exactly. Step 3: 8 is equal to 8.
Check yourself — explain it
The pans are level. What does that tell us?
Paired problem — example still visible
Left pan: 11 cubes. Right pan: 11 cubes. Level or tip? -> Level. The amounts are equal.
Faded completion — last step is yours
"Left pan: 6 cubes. Right pan: 6 cubes. The pans are ___. The amounts are ___." -> level; equal
Ready to practise?
10 scored questions with a 3-rung hint ladder. Mastery needs 8/10 plus both gate questions.