Class: Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1, JSS 1)
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 6
Age: 12 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Mathematics
Curriculum Theme: Mathematics
Previous Lesson: Word Problems and
Topic: Simple Equation in One Variable
Subject Matter: Identifying simple equation in one variable, Examples of three types of equality i.e. Absolute, Referential and Conditional equality.
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain:
(a) Identify and define a simple equation in one variable.
(b) Differentiate between absolute, referential, and conditional equality with examples. - Affective Domain:
(a) Show interest and confidence in solving problems involving simple equations. - Psychomotor Domain:
(a) Solve simple equations in one variable accurately on the board or in their notebooks. - Social Domain:
(a) Work cooperatively with classmates to discuss examples and solutions to equations.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Lagos State Unified Scheme of work for Junior Secondary Schools
- Cuemath – “Introduction to Linear Equations in One Variable” (https://www.cuemath.com/algebra/linear-equations-in-one-variable/)
- Math Planet – “Equations and Inequalities” (https://www.mathplanet.com/education/algebra-1/equations-and-inequalities/equations-in-one-variable)
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Whiteboard and markers
- Mathematical flash cards showing examples of equations
- Chart showing the three types of equality
- Algebra tiles or manipulatives for visual demonstration
- Worksheets for group practice
Rationale for the Lesson
This lesson enables pupils to understand how equations represent equality in mathematics and develop problem-solving skills needed for advanced algebra.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils have learned basic algebraic concepts such as variables, constants, and the use of arithmetic operations to simplify expressions.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
Simple Equation in One Variable
A simple equation in one variable is an equation that contains only one unknown letter (variable) whose value can be determined to make both sides equal.
Examples include:
- ( x + 5 = 9 )
To find ( x ): Subtract 5 from both sides
⇒ ( x = 9 – 5 = 4 ) - ( 3y = 12 )
Divide both sides by 3
⇒ ( y = 12 ÷ 3 = 4 ) - ( p – 7 = 10 )
Add 7 to both sides
⇒ ( p = 17 )
Types of Equality
In Mathematics, equality means both sides of an equation are the same in value. There are three main types of equality:
- Absolute Equality
This type of equality is always true for all values. It shows that both sides are permanently equal.
Examples include:- ( 5 + 3 = 8 )
- ( 2 × 6 = 12 )
These equalities are true all the time, without depending on any variable.
- Referential Equality
This type of equality shows that two different expressions represent the same value or refer to the same quantity.
Examples include:- ( 1 text{ meter} = 100 text{ centimeters} )
- ( 1 text{ kilogram} = 1000 text{ grams} )
These equalities refer to equivalent measures or relationships.
- Conditional Equality
This type of equality is true only when certain conditions are met, usually involving a variable.
Examples include:- ( x + 3 = 7 ) is true only when ( x = 4 ).
- ( 2y = 10 ) is true only when ( y = 5 ).
Therefore, conditional equality depends on solving for the correct variable value.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques:
Lecture, Discussion, Explanation, Demonstration, Guided Practice, Question and Answer, Group Work
Instructional Procedures
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher begins by asking pupils what they understand by the word “equal” and relates it to daily examples such as “2 + 3 = 5” or “sharing items equally.”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond and give examples of equal quantities.
Learning Point: Pupils relate equality in mathematics to everyday experiences.
Step 2: Identifying Simple Equations in One Variable
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what a simple equation in one variable means and writes illustrative examples on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, observe examples, and take notes.
Learning Point: Pupils understand what a simple equation in one variable represents.
Step 3: Solving Simple Equations
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates step-by-step how to solve examples of simple equations using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division methods.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils practice solving the examples in their notebooks.
Learning Point: Pupils learn to find unknown values in one-variable equations.
Step 4: Types of Equality
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the three types of equality — absolute, referential, and conditional — using charts and examples.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils identify examples of each type from the chart or suggest their own.
Learning Point: Pupils can differentiate between absolute, referential, and conditional equalities.
Step 5: Note-Taking
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher dictates or writes the summarized notes on the board for pupils to copy.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils copy notes neatly into their notebooks.
Learning Point: Pupils have a written record of the key points of the lesson.
Step 6: Evaluation/Review
Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:
- Define a simple equation in one variable.
- Solve for ( x ) if ( x + 6 = 10 ).
- State the three types of equality.
- Give one example each of absolute, referential, and conditional equality.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer the questions orally and on the board.
Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of equations and equality types.
Step 7: Conclusion
Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Reinforcement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the lesson and encourages pupils to practice more equations at home.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and respond positively.
Learning Point: Pupils appreciate the importance of solving equations correctly.
Home Task: Solve three new exercises on Simple Equation in One Variable. Show each step and check each answer.
Lesson Keywords
- Equation – a mathematical statement showing that two expressions are equal
- Variable – a letter representing an unknown number
- Equality – the state of being equal in value
- Absolute Equality – equality that is always true
- Conditional Equality – equality true only under certain conditions
Differentiation
Teacher uses real-life examples and group exercises to help weaker learners grasp equality concepts, while advanced pupils solve more complex equations.
Note for teachers using this lesson plan
Ensure pupils understand that the equal sign means “the same as.” Use enough examples and encourage every pupil to attempt solving at least one equation.

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