This free one-step and two-step equations resource includes two pyramid sum puzzles: one on solving one-step equations and another on solving two-step equations. Both puzzles include fraction coefficients, so students must be able to work with integers and fractions. The two-step equations puzzle includes equations in the forms px + q = r and (x + q)/p = r. These activities were created for grades 6-8, but can be used at any level as a quick review.

How It Works:

Simply give each student the template and set of problems. Students solve each equation and record their answers in the circles, then cut out the boxes and place the top row according to the letters on the template. They arrange the remaining boxes so that each solution equals the sum of the two solutions directly above it. Printing the template on colored paper and the equations on white paper really makes the finished puzzles pop!

The box letters and solutions make these puzzles very easy to grade.

A link to a digital version of each puzzle, created in Google Slides™, is included in the file.

These puzzles work very well with Math 7 Unit 3: Equations & Inequalities or Pre-Algebra Unit 3: Equations & Inequalities.