One-Step Equations (× / ÷)
📋 What it is
To undo multiplication or division, do the opposite operation to both sides.
🗣️ Coach says
Same balance idea, different operation. If x is multiplied by 3, undo it by dividing both sides by 3. 3x = 12 → divide both sides by 3 → x = 4. The opposite of × is ÷.
🧠 Memory hook
× undoes with ÷, and ÷ undoes with ×. Both sides, every time.
😂 Giggle
What did the zero say to the eight?
"Nice belt!"
😲 Whoa!
Dividing both sides is exactly how scientists rearrange formulas — the same one-step move rearranges "speed = distance ÷ time" into "distance = speed × time".
✅ Quick check: Solve 3x = 12.
Say your answer out loud first — then reveal.
x = 4 — divide both sides by 3: 12 ÷ 3 = 4.
Division undoes multiplication, keeping both sides equal.
🧪 Try it! (2 minutes)
Share 12 counters equally into 3 cups. Each cup holds 4 — that's solving 3x = 12.