Students will use the TI-Nspire CAS to check the steps they used to solve multi-step equations and equations with variables on both sides. They will also use the solve feature to verify that they have the correct solution at the end of each problem. While solving equations, many students make careless mistakes with simplifying and this activity helps students check each step of the equation instead of waiting to the end of the problem to check the solution.

This activity offers students the opportunity to catch careless mistakes while using inverse operations to solve multi-step equations. Students will solve the following equations with paper and pencil. After each step, students will verify that the operation used is the appropriate inverse operation or if they made an arithmetic error. Students should be familiar with how to solve multi-step equations and equations with variables on both sides before completing this activity.

View the activity file for step-by-step directions for the activity.

View the activity file for assessments/evaluations and activity extensions.