Question

Bernard solved the equation 5 x + (negative 4) = 6 x + 4 using algebra tiles. Which explains why Bernard added 5 negative x-tiles to both sides in the first step of the

solution?
He wanted to create zero pairs on the left side of the equation to get a positive coefficient of x on the right side.
He wanted to combine more negative tiles with the 4 negative tiles on the left side of the equation.
He wanted to remove the larger coefficient on the left side of the equation.
He wanted to have 10 x-tiles on the left side of the equation.

Answer 1

To find why he would do this, we need to understand what all the possible first steps are in this equation.

You could add 4 to both sides.

You could subtract 4 from both sides.

You could subtract 5x from both sides.

You could subtract 6x from both sides.

Any of these work. In Bernard's case, he added 5 negative x tiles, meaning he subtracted. C and D already make no sense, but allow me to further explain. By him subtracting 5x from both sides, the equation turns into:

-4 = x + 4

By this point, he can just subtract 4 from both sides to find the value of x. But the question asks for why he did the first step. Therefore, it would

Answer 2

A

Explanation: