Algebra Studio: Balance Lab is a breakthrough hands-on model for teaching linear equations.
Students work together using physical tools and collaborative problem-solving to develop a strong conceptual foundation in equivalence—setting them up for success with symbolic algebra.
Grade 6+ Tier 1 / Tier 2
Grade 3-5 Advanced
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Experience the full Math Lab with an Algebra Studio kit — includes a Balance Building Kit, Cups & Cubes, and full-size color prints and game mats
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Printables are FREE — no account needed!
Scope & Sequence
Build a balance
Physical equations
CCSS: 6.EE.B.5 | TEKS: 6.10A, 6.10B | FLA: 6.AR.2.1
Balance exploration
Testing balance
CCSS: 6.EE.B.5 | TEKS: 6.10A, 6.10B | FLA: 6.AR.2.1
Creating equations
Balance patterns
CCSS: 6.EE.B.5 | TEKS: 6.10A, 6.10B | FLA: 6.AR.2.1
Balance challenges
Problem solving
CCSS: 6.EE.B.5 | TEKS: 6.10A, 6.10B | FLA: 6.AR.2.1
Physical equations
Equivalence concepts
CCSS: 6.EE.B.5 | TEKS: 6.10A, 6.10B | FLA: 6.AR.2.1
Write & solve equations
Using variables
CCSS: 6.EE.B.6 | TEKS: 6.7D | FLA: 6.AR.1.2
Negative numbers
Multi-step problems
CCSS: 7.EE.B.3 | TEKS: 7.10A, 7.10B, 7.11A | FLA: 7.AR.1.1, 7.AR.2.1
Isolate a variable
Solving techniques
CCSS: 7.EE.B.3 | TEKS: 7.10A, 7.10B, 7.11A | FLA: 7.AR.1.1, 7.AR.2.1
Play ZERO OUT
Evaluating expressions
CCSS: 6.EE.A.1 | TEKS: 6.7C | FLA: 6.AR.1.1
Balanced moves
Maintaining balance
CCSS: 7.EE.B.3 | TEKS: 7.10A, 7.10B, 7.11A | FLA: 7.AR.1.1, 7.AR.2.1
Distributive property
Expanding and factoring
CCSS: 6.EE.A.3 | TEKS: 6.7D | FLA: 6.AR.1.3
Solving on paper
Written methods
CCSS: 7.EE.B.3 | TEKS: 7.10A, 7.10B, 7.11A | FLA: 7.AR.1.1, 7.AR.2.1
Complex equations
Advanced solving
CCSS: 6.EE.A.3, 7.EE.B.3 | TEKS: 6.7D, 7.10A, 7.10B, 7.11A | FLA: 6.AR.1.3, 7.AR.1.1, 7.AR.2.1
Play CARD X
Game-based practice
CCSS: 6.EE.B.5 | TEKS: 6.10A, 6.10B | FLA: 6.AR.2.1