What’s the First Step?

What’s the First Step? is a Grade 6 equation-reasoning activity that asks students to decide how solving should begin before carrying out the full solution. Students examine equations with different structures—such as like terms, parentheses, multiplication, division, or constants on one side—and write a short explanation of the first move they would make.

Use it as a whole-class discussion or writing task when students are learning that not every equation starts the same way. Comparing answers such as combining like terms, distributing, or using an inverse operation helps students focus on equation structure rather than memorized step sequences. Create a free Find a Math Game account to generate teacher-ready lesson support for What’s the First Step? No credit card is required, with 3 lifetime lesson generations.