[b:5858b4f200]Uses a variable to represent a given verbal expression (for example, seven times a number is 7n). [/b:5858b4f200] To learn this concept the child needs to mentally recognize that a substitution has been made in a process he is familiar with. 1) Write three equations on the board. 7 X 7 7 X ? 7 X N (which can also be written as 7N) 2) Explain that in the first equation you are given what to multiple 7 by (which is 7). In the second equation you really do not know, so there is a question mark. In the third, you also do not know, but are given a clue...The[b:5858b4f200] N[/b:5858b4f200] is a great big clue. By looking at another equation that tells you what N is equal to, you can use the clue to solve the problem. In this manner, the child will start to think of the equation as one with a clue that needs to be solved by looking elsewhere (at another equation). 3) Make a game in which clues are hidden around the room (Papers with equations like N=5)…Have the children find the clue, then race to the board to solve the equation. [/b]