What we like about this lesson

Mathematically:

• Addresses standards 6.EE.A.2 and 6.EE.A.4
• Allows students to develop an understanding of the meaning of equivalent expressions
• Promotes coherence by highlighting prior knowledge and pointing to the mathematics that will be built from these ideas
• Requires students' use of precise course-appropriate mathematical language (MP.6)
• Relates concrete quantities and abstract symbols (MP.2)
• Encourages students to make use of structure when creating expressions from the models (MP.7) 

In the classroom: 

• Uses multiple concrete representations and visual models to make the mathematics explicit
• Gives formal and informal opportunities for teachers to check for understanding  
• Provides opportunities for students to discuss mathematical concepts; includes guiding questions for teachers to use to facilitate discussion.