This lesson asks students to build models to represent two step equations from word problems. The lesson is scaffolded to focus on modeling first, then writing an equation to go with the model, then using an equation and a model to solve a problem. 

Students should have some experience using manipulatives and solving one step equations before using this lesson. Teachers should be open to all manner of models and equations to solve a problem. It would also be helpful for the teacher to carefully plan the sharing and to think through what types of models the students might create before delivering the lesson. 

Teacher and student materials are in the attached document.