There are many signs we see every day. Some signs tell us to “stop,” some signs tell us to “go,” and some signs say “you better go real slow.” But today, we are going to learn about a very special sign in math!
The equal sign is a math sign that looks like two straight lines. It goes from left to right, just like this: =. The equal sign is very important because it tells us that both sides are the same.
Let’s have some fun with the equal sign! If both sides are the same, you can put your arms out straight like this: =. If both sides are not the same, you can cross your arms like this: ≠. Now, say out loud: “Equal” if they are the same, or “Not equal” if they are not the same.
Let’s practice saying it together:
Just like the signs that say “stop,” “go,” or “slow,” the equal sign is a sign you will see and use in math. It helps us know when things are the same on both sides.
Did you know? The equal sign was invented over 450 years ago by a man named Robert Recorde. He thought it was the best way to show that two things are the same!
Now you know all about the equal sign. Keep practicing, and you’ll be a math star in no time!
Equal Sign Hunt: Go on a scavenger hunt around your home or classroom to find things that are equal. For example, look for pairs of socks, shoes, or even two equal halves of a sandwich. Once you find them, show your findings to a friend or family member and explain why they are equal. Can you find five pairs of equal things?
Balance Scale Experiment: Use a simple balance scale (or make one using a hanger and some string) to explore the concept of equality. Gather small objects like blocks, coins, or toy cars. Place an equal number of objects on each side of the scale and observe what happens. Discuss with a partner: What do you notice when both sides are equal? What happens when they are not?
Equal Sign Art: Create a piece of art using the equal sign. Draw or paint a picture that includes equal signs to show balance and equality. You could draw two trees of the same height, two animals of the same size, or two shapes that are the same. Share your artwork with the class and explain how you used the equal sign in your picture.
Here’s a sanitized version of the provided YouTube transcript:
—
There are signs that say “stop,”
Signs that say “go,”
Signs that say “you better go real slow.”
But here’s a sign that’s important too—
It’s a math sign you’ll see and use.
The equal sign, two straight lines,
The equal sign, left to right,
The equal sign, that’s its name,
The equal sign means both sides are the same.
Put your arms like this if both sides are equal,
Cross your arms like this if both sides are not equal,
And say out loud:
“Equal” or “not equal.”
Equal,
Not equal,
Equal,
Not equal,
Equal,
Not equal,
Equal,
Not equal.
There are signs that say “stop,”
Signs that say “go,”
Signs that say “you better go real slow.”
But here’s a sign that’s important too—
It’s a math sign you’ll see and use.
The equal sign, two straight lines,
The equal sign, left to right,
The equal sign, that’s its name,
The equal sign means both sides are the same.
—
This version maintains the content while ensuring clarity and proper punctuation.
