Equations and Equality
The equals sign (=) means *"the same as"* — both sides are balanced, like a see-saw that is level.
- Understand that 4 + 1 is the same amount as 3 + 2.
- Fill in the missing number to keep both sides equal: 5 = 2 + ?
- Use objects to check that two groups really are equal.
Thinking of = as *balance* (not just "the answer comes next") sets you up for algebra later. Both sides must always match.