Source: Cyberchase: “A Battle of Equals”
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In this video segment from Cyberchase, the CyberSquad must figure out the correct number code to unlock a machine. They have two numbers on one side, but are missing one of the numbers on the other side. The sum of the numbers must be equal on each side, so by subtracting the same number from each side they are able to determine the missing number.
Download and ShareHere are some Frame, Focus and Follow-up suggestions for using this video in a math lesson.
What is Frame, Focus and Follow-up?
Frame: Let’s say you are trying to get a simple scale to balance. On one side of the scale you have a three-pound weight and a one-pound weight. On the other side, you have a two-pound weight. What would you do to make the scale balance? Why?
Focus: As you watch, notice the problem that the CyberSquad is trying to figure out. Write down the problem using numbers and symbols. See if you can solve it before they do. Did you use addition or subtraction at all?
Follow Up: What was the missing value in the equation the CyberSquad had to solve? How did they figure out the missing value? If you had to unlock the machine and the access code showed 8 + 7 = 6 + __, how would you figure out the missing value?
INEZ: Motherboard's almost out of time! We've got to stop the cyberstatic!
JACKIE: But we don't have the scale! We can't figure out the code without the scale!
MATT:Look! All the numbers are filled in but one!
MATT: It's a longshot, but I bet we can figure out the missing number without the scale!
INEZ: We need to find the number that will makethe total on this side equal the total on the other!
JACKIE: Time for the skwak pad!
JACKIE: If we combine the one and five - the value's still six, right?
MATT: Right! So something plus two equals six.
DIGIT: And hey, remember that take away thingie we did Jackie? We do that here and you've got the number!
JACKIE: Hey, yeah! If we subtract the same value from each side, it won't change the balance. So let's take away two from both sides. If we take two away from both sides, we're left with six minus two equals four! MATT: So the missing number is four!
JACKIE: Wait! Let me just double check before we write it in! We need to be sure. Here's our code: Four plus two equals six!And one plus five equals six! Yep, both sides are equal!
INEZ: Hurry! Motherboard only has a few seconds left!
VOICE: Security Access Permitted!
DIGIT: This is for you, Motherboard!
KIDS: We did it!
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