Algebra Basics for Kids
1. What is Algebra?
Algebra is a way to use letters and numbers to solve problems. It helps us find things we
don’t know yet, like a puzzle!
2. Important Words
2.1 Variable
A variable is a letter that stands for a number we don’t know yet. For example, x or y.
Example: If x + 2 = 5, x is the variable.
2.2 Number
A number is just a number, like 3, 5, or 10.
Example: In 3 + x = 7, 3 and 7 are numbers.
2.3 Equation
An equation is like a sentence in math. It says two things are the same. For example: 2 + x =
5.
Example: 4 + y = 9 means y is the number that makes the sentence true.
3. How to Do Algebra
3.1 Adding and Subtracting
If you have x + 3 = 5, you can find x:
- Take away 3 from both sides: x = 2.
Example: Solve x + 4 = 6.
- Take away 4: x = 2.
3.2 Multiplying
If you have 2x = 6, you can find x:
- Divide by 2: x = 3.
Example: Solve 3x = 12.
- Divide by 3: x = 4.
4. Solving Problems
4.1 Easy Problem
x+4=7
- Take away 4: x = 3.
Example: Solve x + 2 = 5.
- Take away 2: x = 3.
4.2 Harder Problem
3x = 9
- Divide by 3: x = 3.
Example: Solve 4x = 16.
- Divide by 4: x = 4.
5. Fun Math Tricks
5.1 Use Pictures
Draw boxes or circles to help solve problems. For x + 2 = 4, draw two circles and see how
many more make 4.
Example: Solve x + 3 = 6.
- Draw 3 circles and figure out what adds up to 6 (Answer: x = 3).
5.2 Check Your Work
Try putting your answer back in the problem to see if it works!
Example: If x = 3 and the problem is x + 2 = 5, check: 3 + 2 = 5. It works!
6. Practice Problems
6.1 Easy
1. x + 2 = 4
- Answer: x = 2
2. x + 5 = 10
- Answer: x = 5
6.2 A Little Harder
1. 2x = 8
- Answer: x = 4
2. 3x = 9
- Answer: x = 3
6.3 Challenge
1. x + 3 = 8
- Answer: x = 5
2. 5x = 20
- Answer: x = 4
7. Keep Practicing!
1. Math is like a game. The more you play, the better you get!
2. Ask for help if you get stuck. Learning is fun!