Worked Example 1
Different Operations, Same Value
Is 6 × 7 = 50 − 8 true or false?
- 1Left side: 6 × 7 = 42
- 2Right side: 50 − 8 = 42
- 3Both sides are 42.
Answer: True
Florida Grade 4 Math · Algebraic Reasoning
MA.4.AR.2.1: True or False Equations
What this Grade 4 benchmark means, worked examples, common mistakes, and a free printable worksheet.
Created by a Florida mom · Published by Tropical Learning LLC
What Is Benchmark MA.4.AR.2.1?
Students decide whether an equation that uses any of the four operations is true or false and explain why. Multiplication uses factors up to 12 and the related division facts.
Both sides of the equal sign must have the same value. For example, 32 ÷ 8 = 32 − 8 − 8 − 8 − 8 is false, because the left side is 4 and the right side is 0.
Official benchmarkDetermine and explain whether an equation involving any of the four operations with whole numbers is true or false.
On the FAST test: part of the Grade 4 reporting category Number Sense and Operations with Whole Numbers, which is about 31–37% of the test.
Worked Examples
Worked Example 2
Values Don't Match
Is 45 ÷ 5 = 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 true or false?
- 1Left side: 45 ÷ 5 = 9
- 2Right side: 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 12
- 39 and 12 are not equal.
Answer: False
Common Mistakes to Watch For
Working straight across the equal sign
Wrong:8 × 3 = 24 + 6 is true because 8 × 3 is 24, and then add 6.
Compare the value of each side: the left side is 24 and the right side is 30. The equation is false.
Thinking the answer must come after the equal sign
Wrong:56 = 7 × 8 is false.
Either side can hold the product. 7 × 8 is 56, so 56 = 7 × 8 is true.
Helpful Math Tip
Have your child cover one side of the equation with a finger, find the value of the other side, then switch.
Related Grade 4 Skills
Make Florida Math Practice More Fun
Help your child build math confidence with original interactive questions aligned with Florida's B.E.S.T. Mathematics Standards.
Start Practicing FreeIndependent Educational Platform. FastChomp is published by Tropical Learning LLC and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the Florida Department of Education. FAST and Star assessment names are referenced for informational purposes only. FastChomp practice questions are original educational materials, not official Florida FAST assessment questions.