two step equations

1. SOLVING TWO-STEP EQUATIONS
Focus: When – x = #

2. LET’S REVIEW THE STEPS …
5 – x = 9
 Step 1: Draw a line down the middle of the
equation through the equal sign to divide the
equation into 2 equal sides.
5 – x = 9
This is to remind
us that whatever
we do to one
side, we must
also do to the
other.
Keep it
balanced!

3. LET’S REVIEW THE STEPS …
Step 2: Undo addition and subtraction (by adding the
opposite) to zero out the number on the side with the
variable.
5 – x = 9 Step 3: Simplify
-5 -5 and bring down
– x = 4 remaining terms
–1∙ x = 4
Be careful not
to drop the sign
in front of x.

4. LET’S REVIEW THE STEPS …
Step 4: Now undo multiplication by dividing by –1.
– 1 x = 4
– 1 –1
Step 5: Simplify x = – 4
Your answer is x = – 4
***And now, for the most important step …

5. ALWAYS CHECK YOUR ANSWER ….
Step 6: 5 – x = 9
5 – (-4) = 9 Substitute your
5 + 4 = 9 answer in for x
9 = 9 √ and simplify.

6. NOW TRY THESE …
Solve the following Two-Step Equations and
message your answers to Mrs. Brinson.
1. 7 – x = 5
2. -2 – x = 4
3. -x + 9 = 11
4. 18 – x = -2
5. -3 – x = -7