Question

Sam needs to solve 4(5 – a) = 12. Describe a move Sam could use to start to solve the equation.

Answer 1

Explanation:

4(5-a)=12 divide each side by 4

5-a=3 subtract 5 from each side

-a=-2 divide each side by -1

a=2

or

4(5-a)=12 carry out multiplication indicated on left side

20-4a=12 subtract 20 from each side

-4a=-8 divide each side by -4

a=2

Answer 2

Distribute

Explanation:

4 x 5 = 20

4 x -a = -4a

-4a + 20 = 12

-20 From both sides

-4a = -8

Divide both sides by negative 4

a = 2