Make It Equal practice for 11+ maths
21 October 2026
Make it equal in maths
Understanding how to make both sides of an equation equal is a key skill for 11+ maths. This skill helps children build a strong foundation for algebra, as it teaches them how to balance equations and solve for unknown values.
Why it matters
When children practise making equal equations, they learn to see the equals sign as meaning 'the same as', not just 'the answer is'. This understanding is essential for solving equations and developing confidence with algebraic thinking.
Worked example
Step 1: Start with an equation with an unknown, such as 3 + x = 7
Step 2: We want to find the value of x that makes both sides equal.
Step 3: Subtract 3 from both sides: 3 + x - 3 = 7 - 3
Step 4: This simplifies to x = 4
Step 5: Check the answer by putting 4 back into the equation: 3 + 4 = 7
The correct value is x = 4.
Building confidence
Regular practice with activities like the Make It Equal minigame helps children get used to balancing equations. This builds their skills for tackling more complex algebra later on and makes solving equations feel less intimidating.
Key insight: Practising how to make equations equal strengthens your child's understanding of algebra and prepares them well for 11+ maths.
