Equations in stories

Target: Solve a two-step story by undoing the added amount first.

Language target: Retell the story as groups plus extra.

Likely miss: Students combine every number with the same operation.

Ask: What equation did the story write?

If you see it: Write the equation from the story before solving: groups plus a constant.

Evidence to listen for: The equation matches the story and the value checks.

Next: If the constant is multiplied, underline “plus” in the story.

Observable student moves: names both quantities, uses the represented relationship, and revises after feedback. This companion is not a score.