How to play Balance Puzzle

  1. Choose a level, then press Start game.
  2. Each bag holds the same number, x. The balance is level, so both sides are equal.
  3. Press Take 1 from each side, or Take a bag from each side, until one pan has only bags.
  4. Then choose what x is: share the weights out among the bags.
  5. On the No balance level, solve the equation in your head.

For parents and teachers

An equation is a balance: both sides weigh the same. Taking the same from both sides keeps it level, which is the one rule behind every step of solving an equation. Let your child say each step aloud: take 3 from both sides, so 2x is 8, so x is 4. The No balance level checks that the picture has become a method.