Understand the equal sign
Understanding the equal sign is a quiet turning point in your child's math, even though it looks like a tiny symbol. Children who think it means "write the answer next" get stuck on problems like 9 = 4 + ? or 3 + 5 = ? + 6, which appear throughout elementary school. Seeing it as a balance, with the same amount on each side, is also the heart of algebra in middle school.
In this video, your child will learn to understand what the equal sign means.
The lesson stops at each question for your child's answer.
Three problems, each a little harder
Each problem is worked step by step. Your child will solve the last one before Bobby shows how.
Example 1
Which one is true?
Example 2
Which one is false?
Your child's turn
Which one is true?
The three key steps
- 1The equal sign means both sides are the same amount.
- 2Work out each side.
- 3If they match, the equation is true.
Mistakes to listen for
- Calling 7 = 8 - 1 false or "backward" because the answer is on the left instead of at the end.
- Checking only part of an equation, calling 4 + 1 = 5 + 2 true because 4 + 1 does make 5.
- Filling in 3 + 5 = ? + 6 with 8, the answer to the left side, instead of 2, which makes both sides equal.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to what the equal sign really means →
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More 1st grade Problem Solving, with questions your child answers along the way.
Questions parents ask
Does my child need an account to watch?
No. You can watch this on any device at any time. If your child would like to practice what the equal sign really means, and you'd like parent-friendly reports on your child's progress and growth, you can join Bobby's Math Club for unlimited free practice.
What happens when my child answers a question?
A right answer gets a cheer, and the lesson carries on. If your child isn't sure, they can tap "I don't know yet", and Bobby gives the answer and shows another example. Nothing is scored or stored.
Is this the same lesson that's on YouTube?
Yes. Here, the lesson stops at each question and waits for your child to answer. On YouTube, each question stays on screen for a few seconds, and then the lesson plays on.
Where can I learn more?
There's a short, kid-friendly lesson like this one for every Pre-K to 5th grade math skill, all in our video library. Our parent's guide to what the equal sign really means has more on where kids get stuck and how you can help at home. In the club, your child practices at just the right level, about five minutes a day, and you get parent-friendly reports as they grow. Learn more about how it works →
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Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on what the equal sign really means and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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