Reading Balances

Worksheet Description

This worksheet displays a series of balance scales with weights on one side and an empty space for the students to write the corresponding weights on the other side. Each balance scale has a set of weights that need to be totaled, and the students must calculate this sum and record it on the provided line to indicate the weight that would balance the scale. The weights are represented by blocks, each possibly denoting a unit weight, and students are expected to use addition to find the total. The worksheet consists of eight such problems, each with varying numbers of weights to be added.

The worksheet aims to teach students the concept of balance in weights and the mathematical operation of addition to find totals. It is an exercise in understanding how balance scales work, emphasizing that both sides of a scale must be equal to be in equilibrium. Students learn to apply their counting and addition skills in a practical context, reinforcing their numerical literacy. Additionally, the worksheet helps to develop problem-solving strategies, as students must figure out the total weight that balances each scale.