Hello, fellow teachers! Today I’m bringing you a super useful and engaging resource that I’ve been using lately with my students, and let me tell you, it’s been a hit.
It’s a set of 40 task cards designed to help our students practice balancing equations using addition and subtraction within 20. These cards go beyond simple computation, they really push our little learners to understand the concept of equality. It’s that kind of activity where they have to think, not just calculate.
Do you want this resource?
You can get it, along with many other materials, in my Teachers Pay Teachers store.
Each card presents a missing number equation, and what I love most is how they encourage reasoning. It’s great for working that mathematical thinking muscle.
Now, how can we use this in class? Well, I’ve used it in math centers, with small groups, for independent practice, and even as a scoot game when I want to get the peques moving a bit. It’s also perfect for those early finishers who always ask, “What can I do now?”
The cards are simple, clear, and include visual cues so all students, especially those who need a little extra support, can access them with confidence.
Here’s what’s included:
✅ 40 black-and-white task cards
✅ A mix of addition and subtraction equations
✅ Equations with symbols and numbers on both sides of the equal sign
✅ Student answer sheet
✅ Full answer key
✅ Digital version (Google Slides) for those of us mixing in some tech or working with devices
I hope you find it as helpful as I have in your math lessons. Let me know how you decide to use it in your classroom, I always love hearing new ideas.
