1. Objective: Be able to solve linear equations with an unknown both sides.

2. 5a + 3 = 2a + 12 5a = 2a + 12 - 3 5a = 2a + 9 5a – 2a = 9 3a = 9 a = 9
Let’s start by removing this.
5a = 2a
5a = 2a + 9
Doing this removes the add 3, but remember to subtract 3 from the other side too!
5a – 2a = 9
This says add 3
Now, let’s remove this.
3a = 9
To “get rid of” our 2a, we have to subtract 2a
What is the inverse operation?
a = 9
A 3
= 3
Subtract 3

3. 5(a - 4) = 3(a + 2) 5a - 20 = 3a + 6 5a = 3a + 6 + 20 5a = 3a + 26
First expand the brackets
5a = 3a + 26
5a – 3a = 26
2a = 26
a = 13